Alida to turn up for BD

Bangladesh has so far not been widely represented by expatriate athletes at the international arena yet. So far only four athletes – Denmark-born footballer Jamal Bhuiyan, Germany-based footballer Riasat Khaton, US-based gymnast Syque Caesar and England-born shooter Quaysoor Miah – have represented Bangladesh at an international level.

However, the list looks set to be increased as US-born athlete Alida Sikder is getting the opportunity to represent Bangladesh in the 4th Islamic Solidarity Games, which will be held in Baku from May 12 to 22.

Alida, a 19-year-old student of the University of Southern California, will join the Bangladesh contingent in Baku where Bangladesh will be represented in eight disciplines -- shooting, weightlifting, swimming, wrestling, gymnastics, athletics, karate and zurkhaneh.

Bangladesh Athletics Federation's (BAF) general secretary Abdur Rakib Montu told reporters that they have included Alida considering her performances in the inter-school and college championships in USA. Alida was once the best long-jumper in her state, added Montu. 

Apart from the long-jump event, Alida will also compete in the 100m sprint.

Meanwhile, the BAF will hold an open trial on Tuesday to select athletes for the upcoming Asian Track and Field meet, which will be held in India from July 6 to 9.

There will be 11 events for men and four events for women at the Bangabandhu National Stadium for the trial.