Sawan Barwal | From The Hills of Himachal To Asian Games | Reliance Foundation Sports

Growing up in Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, Sawan came from a family with a connection to athletics and trained in the high-altitude environment of the hills. He first tried badminton before a school sports programme introduced him to running. It was there that coach Gopal Thakur spotted something special in him - a natural endurance and talent that could take him further. As Sawan progressed through school and district competitions, running slowly became more than just another sport. But pursuing athletics was not easy. With limited means at home, his family had to find ways to support his journey. Joining the military gave him some stability, before Reliance Foundation Sports became another important turning point. Sawan joined Reliance Foundation Sports in 2022. After a three-year gap from major competition, he returned to the Federation Cup and won bronze. With the support of coaches, physiotherapists, sports science and international competition exposure, his performances continued to grow. In 2024, that journey reached a moment he had always dreamed of - wearing the India kit for the first time at the Asian Half Marathon Championships, where he won individual bronze and contributed to India’s team gold. 🇮🇳 His progress has continued, with personal bests on the track and a growing belief that he belongs at the highest level. From the hills of Himachal Pradesh to representing India on the international stage, Sawan’s journey is built on talent, perseverance and the people who believed in him along the way. Now, his goal is simple: to compete for India and bring home another medal for the country. Watch Sawan Barwal’s story on the Reliance Foundation Sports YouTube channel.