Asian Ambitions: India Gears Up for Golden Run in South Korea

 

 

 

 

 

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A perfect blend of experience and youth

The Indian squad is a strategic mix of seasoned internationals and promising youngsters. Spearheading the team is Avinash Sable, the national record holder in the men’s 3000m steeplechase. Sable, who clinched silver at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, is widely seen as a definite medal contender and a possible gold-medal favourite in Gumi.

Another key name is our very own Jyothi Yarraji, the defending Asian champion in the women's 100m hurdles. Since her gold-winning run in 2023, Jyothi has consistently improved, breaking the national record multiple times — her current best stands at 12.78 seconds. Her ability to be in her element under pressure and execute clean hurdle techniques has made her one of Asia's fastest-rising sprint hurdlers.

Tejaswin Shankar, India’s all-rounder in the decathlon, will also be one to watch. Shankar has proven his international credentials by becoming the first Indian to medal in a multi-event at the Asian Games, the previous edition of this event, and continues to build his credentials in Asian competition.

Jumpers hold the key

India’s field events have been a major source of success over the years, and this time as well, the team has strong medal hopes in the jumps. Shaili Singh, the long jump prodigy mentored by Anju Bobby George, is finally coming into her own on the senior circuit. Alongside her, RF athlete Ancy Sojan is also seen as a prime contender for the top prize in Gumi. With a personal best of 6.76m and a season’s best of 6.56m at the UAE Athletics Women's Gala, the girl from Kerala is capable of taking the competition by the scruff of the neck.

In the men’s triple jump, both Abdulla Aboobacker, the defending champion, and Praveen Chithravel, who has crossed 17.3om this season, are among the top-ranked jumpers in Asia. With both athletes consistently breaching the 17m mark, a double podium finish is within India’s grasp.

Life beyond Neeraj Chopra

Neeraj Chopra, India’s Olympic and World Champion in javelin throw, has opted to skip the event to focus on the World Championships later this year. In his absence, the responsibility shifts to Sachin Yadav and Yashvir Singh. Yadav has been a steady performer in the domestic circuit and recently crossed the 80m mark.

However, the challenge will be steep. The reigning Olympic champion Arshad Nadeem of Pakistan, will be the one to beat. His presence adds pressure and prestige to the event, setting up a potential subcontinental showdown that could draw international attention.

Emerging speed generation

India’s sprint relay teams have often fallen short at big meets, but this time, expectations are different. The men's 4x100m relay squad featuring Amlan Borgohain, Animesh Kujur, Gurinderver Singh, and Manikanta Hoblidhar recently broke the long-standing National Record at the National Relay Carnival. Their chemistry and rhythm will be key, especially in baton exchanges, which have historically been India’s Achilles heel.

 

 

 

 

 

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Individually, Amlan and Animesh are pushing the envelope in the 100m and 200m events. Both have posted sub-21 second timings this year and will be hoping to crack the Asian top five with personal best performances in Gumi.

The strength in distance races

India’s middle-distance team of Krishan Kumar & Anu Kumar in the 800m, and Parul Chaudhary in the women’s 3000m steeplechase bring experience and stamina. Parul has shown promise with her strong finishing kicks and holds the national record in her event. Having qualified for the World Championships, her race in Gumi could be a perfect dress rehearsal ahead of the Tokyo Worlds.

Our distance star Gulveer Singh is another rising name in long-distance events. He has been on an upward trajectory and will be looking to leave a mark in both 5,000m and 10,000m.

Image source : AAC2023