Asian Indoor Athletics: Dhyani Shines with Silver, Singh Gets a Disappointing DQ

At the recently concluded Asian Indoor Athletics Championships in Tehran, Ankita Dhyani brought home a silver medal in the women’s 3000m! She clocked a strong 9:26.22, finishing behind Japan’s Yuma Yamamoto (gold) and Kyrgyzstan’s Ainuska Kalil Kyzy (bronze). Interestingly, this wasn’t their first podium encounter: they also medaled in the outdoor Asian Championships last year, with Yamamoto taking gold and Dhyani grabbing bronze in the 5000m.

Unfortunately, India’s Gulveer Singh had his gold medal win in the men’s 3000m disqualified due to lane infringement. He crossed the finish line first, but a technicality robbed him of the top spot. Nursultan Keneshbekov of Kyrgyzstan was upgraded to gold, while Iran’s Seyed Amir Zamanpour received silver.

Despite the disappointment, India had other shining moments. Harmilan Bains and Jyothi Yarraji clinched gold medals in the women’s 1500m and 60m hurdles, respectively. Tajinderpal Singh Toor successfully defended his title in the men’s shot put.

India finished the competition with 3 gold medals and 1 silver, placing fifth on the overall medal tally. While China dominated with 16 medals, India’s performance showcases promising athletes like Dhyani and continued strength in specific events.

Baranica Elangovan placed 5th in the women’s pole vault. Mohammed Afsal finished 4th in the men’s 800m. This championship marks a good step forward for Indian athletics, with both established stars and rising talents making their mark on the continental stage.