Mohammed Afsal Pulikkalakath and Praveen Chithravel Triumph at European Athletics Meets

In a notable display of athletic prowess, India’s Mohammed Afsal Pulikkalakath and Praveen Chithravel secured victories in their respective events at prestigious athletics meets in Europe on Wednesday, further establishing their positions on the international stage.

Mohammed Afsal Pulikkalakath won the men’s 800m title at the Swietelsky Grand Prix Tabor 2025, clocking an impressive time of 1:47.01. His performance not only secured him the first-place finish but also showcased his growing talent in middle-distance running. According to Suresh Kumar, Head Coach of the Indian Athletics Federation, “Afsal’s time is a personal best and positions him well for future competitions, including upcoming international championships.” Afsal’s training regime, which includes intense speed and endurance workouts, appears to be paying off, evidenced by his recent performances.

Simultaneously, Praveen Chithravel excelled in the men’s triple jump at the Meeting Memorial Jose Luis Hernandez, achieving a remarkable jump that secured him the gold medal. His exact distance has yet to be officially recorded, but it is reported to be among his best performances this season. Dr. Rina Sharma, a sports scientist at the National Institute of Sports, commented, “Praveen’s technique has improved significantly, and this could be attributed to the rigorous training methods introduced last year.”

Both athletes’ performances come at a time when Indian athletics is gaining international recognition, with several athletes breaking records and achieving personal bests. The Indian government has increased funding for sports training, and this is reflected in the results seen on international platforms. As noted in the 2023 report by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, investment in athletic programs has nearly doubled over the past five years, leading to a surge in competitive performances.

Historically, Indian athletes have faced challenges in gaining recognition on the global stage, particularly in events such as track and field. However, with increased support from the government and organizations like the Athletics Federation of India, there is a growing optimism about the future of Indian athletics.

As these two athletes continue to excel, the implications for Indian athletics are significant. Their victories not only enhance their personal careers but also inspire a new generation of athletes in India. The future looks promising with the potential for more athletes to emerge in international competitions. The upcoming Asian Games and World Championships will be key opportunities for Pulikkalakath and Chithravel to further elevate their profiles and contribute to India’s growing reputation in athletics.

In conclusion, the recent successes of Mohammed Afsal Pulikkalakath and Praveen Chithravel underscore the potential of Indian athletes in the international arena. As they prepare for future competitions, their journeys will undoubtedly pave the way for greater achievements and inspire future generations in the realm of sports.