Vithya Ramraj Shatters PT Usha's Record at Asian Games 2026

Southern Railways Coach Celebrates Ramraj's Achievement

Nizamudeen, the Chief Athletics Coach of Southern Railways, praised Vithya Ramraj for her remarkable bronze medal win at the Asian Games 2026. He expressed optimism that she would secure a gold medal in the women's 4x400m relay event scheduled for today, September 29.

Historic Performance by Vithya Ramraj

On Monday, Ramraj made headlines by breaking PT Usha's long-standing national record in the women's 400m hurdles, a record that had stood for 42 years. She had previously matched this record during the semifinals at the Asian Games held in Hangzhou.

During the final at Nagoya's Mizuho Stadium, the track conditions were challenging due to rain and moisture. Nevertheless, Ramraj successfully navigated all 10 hurdles, finishing third. She clocked a personal best of 54.75 seconds, earning bronze behind UAE's Mariam Kareem, who set a new Games record with a time of 54.31 seconds, and Kazakhstan's Adelina Zems, who secured silver with a time of 54.58 seconds. Ramraj's performance not only earned her a medal but also broke Usha's previous record of 55.42 seconds from the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics.

Coach's Aspirations for the Relay Event

Nizamudeen remarked, "Vithya Ramraj has achieved a bronze medal at the Asian Games, setting a new national record of 54.75 seconds, surpassing the 42-year-old record held by PT Usha from 1984, which was 55.42 seconds."

He expressed confidence in Ramraj and the Indian women's 4x400m relay team, hoping they would clinch gold in the upcoming event. "Tomorrow, she will compete in the women's 4x400 relay. I am optimistic that the team will also secure a gold medal. She has already won a silver and a bronze, and I believe she will achieve gold as well," he added.

Ramraj is now focused on the women's 4x400m relay, where she has another chance to enhance her medal collection at the Asian Games.