Indian long-distance runner targets Olympic glory after historic performance in Rotterdam
Punjab Newsline | Sports
India’s rising marathon star Sawan Barwal has scripted history with a sensational debut at the Rotterdam Marathon 2026, shattering a 48-year-old national record and igniting fresh hopes for Indian athletics on the global stage. Clocking an impressive 2:11:58, Barwal eclipsed the long-standing record set by Shivnath Singh in 1978—one of the oldest benchmarks in Indian track and field.
Hailing from the hills of Himachal Pradesh, the 27-year-old’s remarkable achievement did not immediately sink in as he crossed the finish line. Battling exhaustion after an intense race, Barwal was focused solely on completing the run. It was only moments later that the magnitude of his feat became clear, marking not just a personal triumph but a proud moment for the nation.
The race itself was anything but easy. Challenging weather conditions, including strong winds and cold temperatures, tested his endurance, especially in the final kilometres. Barwal admitted to feeling dizzy and struggling to maintain balance after pouring water over himself mid-race. However, demonstrating exceptional mental resilience, he pushed through the pain barrier, turning the closing stretch into a test of sheer willpower.
Having transitioned from middle-distance track events like the 1500m and 5000m, Barwal emphasized the difficulty of adapting to marathon running, which demands patience, rhythm, and sustained endurance. He described his move to the marathon as a gradual evolution rather than a record-driven pursuit, guided by years of training and experience.
Looking ahead, Barwal has firmly set his sights on the 2028 Summer Olympics, where he aims to represent India and deliver a strong performance. With a structured plan focusing on recovery, consistency, and international exposure, he is determined to build on this historic start.
Barwal believes that improved facilities, scientific training, and global exposure have finally enabled Indian athletes to challenge long-standing records. For him, this milestone is only the beginning, as he hopes to inspire a new generation of distance runners to push boundaries and aim higher on the world stage.