New Delhi, Oct. 7 -- The National Open Athletics Championships starting at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium here on Thursday will provide emerging talent an opportunity to make a mark while many of India's leading track and field stars are missing after the Asian Games.

Among the prominent names competing is high jumper Sarvesh Kushare, who has enjoyed an outstanding season, claiming the silver medal at the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games. Kushare, the national record holder at 2.31m, will represent Services.

Also in action will be the seasoned MR Poovamma and Kiran Pahal, members of the women's 4x400m relay quartet that won India's only athletics gold in Aichi-Nagoya. The men's 400m has an impressive line-up with TS Manu, Dharamveer Cho...