India’s long-distance runner Sawan Barwal created history by breaking the 48-year-old national marathon record, the longest-standing record in Indian athletics.
He achieved this feat at the NN Marathon Rotterdam, clocking 2 hours 11 minutes 58 seconds.
Record-Breaking Achievement
- New National Record: 2:11:58
- Previous Record: 2:12:00
- Earlier Record Holder: Shivnath Singh (since 1978)
Barwal improved the record by 2 seconds, ending a mark that stood for nearly five decades.
Performance in the Race
- Finished 20th in the elite race
- Maintained strong pace throughout:
- Halfway (21 km): 1:04:43 (27th position)
- 35 km mark: moved up to 19th position
Another Indian runner, Gopi Thonakal, finished 23rd with a time of 2:13:16.
Special Significance of the Achievement
- This was Barwal’s first-ever full marathon race
- Makes the achievement even more remarkable
- Highlights his transition from:
- Track events (5000m, 10000m)
- Half marathons
→ to a full marathon
Athlete Background
- Age: 28 years
- From: Mandi district, Himachal Pradesh
- Profession: Indian Army personnel
- Coach: Gopal Thakur
Barwal has steadily risen through the ranks with consistent performances.
Career Highlights
- 2022:
- 10,000m – Federation Cup
- 5,000m – National Games
- 2023:
- Asian Half Marathon Championships (Dubai)
- 2024:
- 5,000m – Federation Cup
- Indian Elite Category – Delhi Half Marathon
- 2025 (Breakthrough Year):
- 5,000m & 10,000m – National Games
- 10,000m – Federation Cup
- 5,000m – World Athletics Continental Tour
Journey to Success
- Began athletics during school days
- Competed in district and zonal events
- Joined the Indian Army in 2019
- Built endurance through:
- Half marathons
- Long-distance track events
His success at Rotterdam reflects years of disciplined training and gradual progression.
Conclusion
Sawan Barwal’s record-breaking performance marks a historic moment for Indian athletics. By surpassing a 48-year-old record in his first marathon, he has set a new benchmark and emerged as a strong contender for future international events.