New Delhi: India’s top 400m runners believe the upcoming Commonwealth Games in Glasgow will present a greater challenge than the Asian Games later this year, making the event a crucial benchmark as they prepare for one of the biggest seasons of their careers.
The Commonwealth Games are scheduled to begin on July 23, with India fielding a 32 member athletics squad. Among the athletes expected to play a key role is 22 year old Vishal Thennarasu Kayalvizhi, who will compete in both the men’s 400m and the mixed 4x400m relay.
Vishal feels the presence of strong competitors from countries such as Australia and England will raise the standard of competition significantly. He believes the level of racing at the Commonwealth Games demands exceptional performances but also offers the ideal platform for Indian athletes to test themselves against world class opposition. Confident in his preparation, he is determined to deliver his best and continue improving on the international stage.
The young sprinter heads into the competition in impressive form after setting a national record of 44.98 seconds in the men’s 400m at the Federation Cup in Ranchi. He also achieved a personal best of 3:00.32 in the men’s 4x400m relay during the World Relays in Botswana. As part of his preparations, Vishal will attend a 45 day government supported training camp in Spala, Poland alongside a 60 member Indian contingent comprising athletes, coaches and support staff.
National camper Jay Kumar shares the same assessment, saying the Commonwealth Games feature a much stronger field in the men’s 400m compared to the Asian Games. While his main target remains the Asian Games, he acknowledged that standing on the podium at either event would require outstanding performances.
Kumar pointed out that Commonwealth Games finalists regularly produce timings between 43 and 45 seconds, whereas recent Asian Games titles have generally been secured with times above 45 seconds. He believes competing in Glasgow will provide valuable exposure and help India’s quarter milers sharpen their form before shifting focus to the Asian Games later this year.
