Bhubaneswar, July 7: Sporting spirit is on a high in the state capital with everyone keen to witness the spectacle unfolding at the Asian Athletics Championship, which entered its second day today.

While the athletes were busy warming up amidst cheer from spectators inside the stadium, those outside, not to be left out, made their voices heard as well. They were watching the games on the large screens installed outside.

The screens, which have been installed outside Kalinga Stadium and at Master Canteen Square, attracted a large number of people, who were seen enjoying the events with equal enthusiasm.

"People were queuing up to grab their tickets in large numbers outside the stadium. But since not everyone will be able to get in, the large screens broadcasting the games live have come as a blessing," said Satya Prakash, a spectator at Master Canteen Sqaure.

The events came thick and fast and the good performance of the Indian athletes added to the spirit of the enthusiasts. India got off to a flyer today with national record holder Muhammed Anas easing into the final of the men's 400m, while South Asian Games gold medallist and Odia athlete Jauna Murmu qualifying for the final, finishing second in the 400m hurdles heat.

"We get to see Indian athletes in action. It's a great thing that they are performing well and I hope they will grab a good number of medals from the games," said Priyanka Majhi, resident of Nayapalli, applauding the performance of the Indian athletes.

However, some also demanded creation of a fan zone similar to the ones created during the Indian Premier League. "The administration should think a step ahead and create fan zones instead of putting up LED screens at random places. The fan zones will accommodate more people," said Kalki Mohapatra, who was catching up with action at Master Canteen Square.

Expectations of fans from Odia athletes are evident as well. Various organisations have put up banners across the city to wish them well. "Being an Odia, it is obvious that we have expectations and want to see the local athletes win. I am eagerly awaiting their performance," said Mohapatra.

People were also forming long queues at the box office of Kalinga Stadium for tickets for tomorrow's events. "I stood in the queue for about an hour and before I got a ticket for tomorrow's morning session. I was happy to get it after such hard work," said Susmita Mishra, a resident of Jayadev Vihar.