India’s men’s 4x400m and mixed 4x100m relay squads delivered standout performances at the International Invitation Relay Competition in Chandigarh, signaling strong prospects for qualification to the World Athletics Relays in Botswana this May. The men’s 4x400m team, comprising Manu TS, Amoj Jacob, D Chaudhary, and Rajesh Ramesh, clinched gold with a time of 3:01.43 seconds. Meanwhile, the National B team in the mixed 4x100m relay broke the national record with 42.30 seconds, surpassing Tamil Nadu’s 2025 mark of 43.44 seconds. With the India A team close behind, these performances underscore India’s growing strength and depth in relay events.
Men’s 4x400m Team Secures Gold
The men’s 4x400m relay squad dominated the track with a commanding gold-medal performance. Clocking 3:01.43 seconds, the quartet—Manu TS, Amoj Jacob, D Chaudhary, and Rajesh Ramesh—demonstrated seamless baton exchanges and consistent speed, critical for their bid to secure qualification for the World Athletics Relays in Gaborone, Botswana, scheduled for May 2–3.
Their performance not only reinforces India’s presence in the global relay circuit but also highlights the strategic blend of experienced athletes and emerging talent, a combination that has been instrumental in elevating national standards in track events.
Mixed 4x100m Relay Shatters National Record
The mixed 4x100m relay delivered a historic moment as India’s National B team set a new national record, completing the race in 42.30 seconds. This performance eclipsed the previous record of 43.44 seconds, set by Tamil Nadu in 2025, signaling a significant improvement in coordination and sprinting prowess among mixed-gender relay squads.
India A closely followed with a time of 42.34 seconds, while the Maldives secured third place, highlighting the competitive intensity of the event. This depth reflects growing investment in training, selection, and relay strategy nationwide.
Coach Praises Depth and Performance
Chief athletics coach Radhakrishnan Nair lauded the performances, noting that both Indian teams had performed “exceedingly well.” He emphasized that such results demonstrate the expanding talent pool in Indian athletics, especially in relay events where precision and teamwork are as critical as individual speed.
The performances provide a confidence boost ahead of the World Athletics Relays, where India aims to establish itself as a consistent presence among the world’s top relay nations.
Looking Ahead: World Athletics Relays in Botswana
These performances in Chandigarh serve as a litmus test for India’s readiness for international competition. With athletes delivering record-breaking timings and smooth baton transitions, expectations are high for May’s event in Gaborone. The outcomes reflect not only individual talent but also the systemic improvements in relay preparation, signaling India’s emergence as a serious contender on the global stage.
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