In a historic achievement for Indian athletics, the nation’s mixed 4x400m relay team secured its first-ever gold medal at the World Athletics Championships. The Indian quartet, comprising Muhammed Anas Yahiya, Revathi Veeramani, Rajiv Arokia, and Vismaya Velluva, put on a stunning performance to finish ahead of the United States and Poland, marking a significant milestone in India’s athletics journey.BZBET
The race, held at the National Athletics Centre in Budapest, was a tightly contested affair. India, drawn in lane five, got off to a strong start with Muhammed Anas leading the first leg. Anas maintained a close position behind the American sprinter, ensuring India was in contention as he handed the baton to Revathi Veeramani. Revathi, displaying remarkable speed and composure, managed to push India into the lead by the halfway point of the race.
Rajiv Arokia, running the third leg, had the challenge of holding off strong competitors from Poland and Jamaica. He did so brilliantly, keeping India in the lead with a powerful run that left the crowd on its feet. As Vismaya Velluva received the baton for the final leg, the atmosphere was electric. Vismaya held her nerve, fending off a late challenge from the American sprinter to cross the finish line in 3:15.55, just 0.24 seconds ahead of the United States.
The victory sent waves of joy across the stadium, with the Indian team celebrating their unprecedented achievement. This gold medal is India’s first in the history of the World Athletics Championships and a testament to the progress the country has made in track and field events.
Speaking after the race, a jubilant Muhammed Anas said, “This is a dream come true for all of us. We knew we had a chance, but to actually win gold is unbelievable. This victory is for the entire nation, and we hope it inspires more young athletes to take up track and field.”
Indian athletics has been on an upward trajectory in recent years, with increasing investment in training facilities, coaching, and international exposure. The success of the mixed relay team is seen as a reflection of these efforts, and it has sparked hopes for more podium finishes in future global events, including the upcoming Olympics.
The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) lauded the team’s performance, with President Adille Sumariwalla stating, “This is a historic moment for Indian athletics. Our athletes have shown tremendous grit and determination, and this gold medal is a reward for all their hard work. We are extremely proud of them and confident that this is just the beginning of many more successes on the world stage.”
As India celebrates this remarkable achievement, the mixed relay team’s gold medal is sure to inspire a new generation of athletes to pursue excellence in athletics.
