India made an encouraging start to the inaugural Asian U-23 Athletics Championships in Ordos, China, collecting five medals on the opening day, including one gold, one silver and three bronze medals. The performances reflected the country’s growing depth in track and field as several young athletes delivered podium finishes across multiple disciplines.
Mixed 4x400m Relay Delivers India’s First Gold
India’s biggest success of the day came in the mixed 4x400m relay, where the quartet produced a commanding performance to clinch the gold medal. The Indian team clocked 3:18.64, registering a personal best and securing the country’s first title of the championship.
The victory highlighted India’s continued dominance in relay events and provided the perfect start to its campaign.
Double Delight in Men’s 5000m
India celebrated a memorable outing in the men’s 5000m, with two athletes reaching the podium.
Shivaji P. Madappagoudra claimed the silver medal after finishing in 14:08.19.
Vinod Singh followed closely to secure the bronze medal with a timing of 14:23.67.
The double podium finish showcased India’s strength in long-distance running and contributed significantly to the overall medal tally.
Prachi Devkar Adds Steeplechase Bronze
In the women’s 3000m steeplechase, Prachi Devkar produced a determined race to win the bronze medal. She crossed the finish line in 10:32.69, adding another valuable medal to India’s tally.
Bharatpreet Singh Finishes Third in Discus Throw
The field events also brought success for India as Bharatpreet Singh secured the bronze medal in the men’s discus throw. His best effort of 52.91 metres was enough to earn a place on the podium.
Promising Signs Beyond the Medal Winners
Apart from the medal-winning performances, India had several encouraging results on the opening day.
Indian runners qualified for the finals in both the men’s and women’s 800m, keeping hopes alive for additional medals.
The men’s hammer throw campaign ended with a sixth-place finish.
Indian sprinters missed qualification for the men’s 100m final after finishing outside the qualifying positions in their respective heats.
In the women’s pole vault, an Indian athlete narrowly missed the podium with a fourth-place finish after clearing 3.90m.
Strong Foundation for the Remaining Days
With five medals on Day 1, India has laid a solid platform for the remainder of the four-day championship. The relay gold, combined with consistent performances in middle-distance races and field events, underlines the promise of India’s next generation of athletes.
As more finals are scheduled over the coming days, the Indian contingent will look to build on this momentum and increase its medal tally at the continental meet.
India’s Day 1 Medal Winners
Gold: Mixed 4x400m Relay – 3:18.64 (Personal Best)
Silver: Shivaji P. Madappagoudra – Men’s 5000m (14:08.19)
Bronze: Vinod Singh – Men’s 5000m (14:23.67)
Bronze: Prachi Devkar – Women’s 3000m Steeplechase (10:32.69)
Bronze: Bharatpreet Singh – Men’s Discus Throw (52.91m)
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