The much-anticipated track and field event at National Games 2025 will take center stage at MPSC’s Ganga Athletics Ground from February 8th to 12th. The competition is expected to attract the best athletics athletes from across the country.
Some of India’s biggest names, including Olympic gold medalist Neeraj Chopra, have chosen to focus on international commitments, but the tournament still boasts an impressive lineup.
Some experienced athletes, and promising young talent, are trying to leave their mark. Athletics events promise high-intensity action with national records and pride.
Here are the top three athletes for National Games 2025:
#3 Parul Chowdhary
Arjuna winner Parul Chaudhary will be competing in his third national tournament. An expert on 3000m obstacle races and 5000m events, she is one of India’s most dominant long distance runners in recent years.
She won gold in the 2022 National Games and is keen to add another game to her tally. Chaudhary holds multiple national records for children with disabilities at 3000m, including 9:15.31, 15:10.35 in 5000m, and 8:57.19 in 3000m. She competed in the 2024 Parisilympics and is aiming to win the top podium.
#2 Amiya Malik
Veteran sprinter Amiya Malik is scheduled to appear at his fourth national tournament. He once held a national record in the 100m sprint in a time of 10.26 seconds, achieved in the 2016 Federation Cup in New Delhi.
In upcoming tournaments, he will compete in Odisha’s 4x100m relay. His recent performance at the event took place at the 63rd National Open Athletics Championship 2024 in Bengaluru. Malik aims to replicate that performance and help his team round out the finishing touches on another podium.
#1 Srabani Nanda
Federal and Asian Championship bronze medalist Srabani Nanda will also become an important competitor. This is her fourth appearance in the national tournament, and she remains strong in the 200m event.
In 2016, with a personal best of 23.07 seconds, Nanda has been one of India’s most consistent sprinters for many years. She recently won silver in the 200m at the 63rd National Open Athletics Championship 2024 in a time of 23.83 seconds. Her experience and competitiveness make her a strong medal in upcoming tournaments.
Edited by Sudeshna Banerjee
