Parul Chaudhary Celebrates First Award, Eyes Future Competitions

Recognition Fuels Ambition for Parul Chaudhary

New Delhi, June 21: Long-distance runner Parul Chaudhary expressed that receiving her inaugural award from the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) has significantly inspired her to excel in future competitions.

After being honored as the Best Female Athlete at the first-ever Indian Athletics Awards, Chaudhary shared her joy regarding this acknowledgment, emphasizing its importance in her athletic journey.

“It feels amazing. This is my first award from the Federation, and it truly means a lot to me. It has also motivated me to perform better in the upcoming events,” she stated.

The athlete mentioned that her training is on track and she feels optimistic about the forthcoming major competitions, including the Asian Games and Commonwealth Games.

“The training is going well, and I am determined to give my best,” she remarked, highlighting her commitment to maintaining her form and enhancing her performance on the global stage.

Chaudhary, who specializes in steeplechase, was awarded the title of ‘Best Female Athlete of the Year 2025’.

Recently, she narrowly missed breaking her own national record in the women’s 3000-meter steeplechase at the Shanghai Diamond League 2026, finishing with a time of 9:12.84 and placing seventh.

She fell just 0.38 seconds short of her national record, which she set during her gold medal performance at the Asian Athletics Championships in Gumi last year, where she clocked 9:12.96 but settled for a silver medal.

In related news, Neeraj Chopra, a two-time Olympic medalist and former world champion in javelin throw, was awarded the ‘Best Male Athlete of the Year 2025’ at the same AFI Awards ceremony.

The award was presented by Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, as Chopra kicked off his 2026 season by qualifying for the upcoming Commonwealth Games at the Doha Diamond League.