Running — whether it’s a lightning‑fast sprint or an endurance‑testing long distance — has seen growing prominence in Indian athletics over recent years. From national record‑holders to Asian champions, Indian runners are breaking barriers and winning medals on global stages. Here are the Top 10 runners in india from India across different track and road events.
1. Animesh Kujur — India’s Fastest Sprinter
Animesh Kujur is currently India’s premier sprinting talent, holding the national records in both the 100 m (10.18 s) and 200 m events. He is the first Indian to run the 100 m in under 10.20 seconds and has become a standout figure in Indian athletics.
Why he’s #1:
• National record‑holder in 100 m and 200 m — unmatched speed.
• World Championships qualifier and future Olympic contender.
2. Gulveer Singh — Distance Champion
Gulveer Singh has emerged as India’s most successful long‑distance runner in recent years. He won double gold in the 5000 m and 10,000 m at the Asian Athletics Championships and holds top Indian times across multiple distances.
Why he’s notable:
• Asian champion in both 5000 m and 10,000 m.
• Bronzes at Asian Games and Asian Championships highlight his consistency.
3. Parul Chaudhary — Women’s Long‑Distance Star
Parul Chaudhary specialises in 5000 m and steeplechase and has represented India at the Olympics. She is one of the leading female distance runners in India with national records to her name.
Impact:
• First Indian woman to clock a sub‑9 minute time in 3000 m.
• Role model for women’s athletics in India.
4. Murali Kumar Gavit — Consistent Long‑Distance Performer
Murali Kumar Gavit has built a strong reputation in 5000 m and 10,000 m races, with medals at the Asian Athletics Championships and major road races like the World 10K Bengaluru.
Strengths:
• Asian Championship medalist.
• Dependable performer in both track and road events.
5. Manikanta Hoblidhar — Top Indian Sprinter
Manikanta Hoblidhar has been among India’s fastest sprinters, posting competitive times well under 10.30 seconds in the 100 m and winning national gold medals, making him a standout in Indian sprinting circles.
Why he’s included:
• Stadium‑level sprint victories with elite times.
• Part of a new generation of fast Indian sprinters.
6. Harsh Raut — Rising Sprinting Talent
Harsh Raut is another promising 100 m sprinter who broke the 10.40‑second barrier and won national gold, placing him among India’s top active sprinters.
What sets him apart:
• Young and improving athlete making waves in national competitions.
• Represents the future of Indian sprinting.
7. Seema — Women’s Distance Champion
Seema is a long‑distance specialist who has won national championships in the 10 km and cross‑country, establishing herself as one of India’s best in endurance events.
Highlights:
• National 10 km champion.
• Asian cross‑country gold medalist.
8. Abdul Najeeb Qureshi — Sprint Pioneer
A veteran sprinter from Hyderabad, Abdul Najeeb Qureshi once held the Indian 100 m record and was part of India’s 4×100 relay success at the Commonwealth Games — laying groundwork for future sprinters.
Legacy:
• Former national record holder in sprinting.
• Commonwealth Games relay medalist.
9. Sawan Barwal — National Distance Star
Sawan Barwal shone at the National Games with gold medals and record performances in both 5,000 m and 10,000 m, solidifying his place among India’s leading long‑distance runners.
Achievements:
• National Games champion in 5,000 m and 10,000 m.
• Set new national meet records.
10. Historic Legend — Hari Chand
While no longer competing, Hari Chand remains one of India’s legendary long‑distance runners. He set national records and represented India at the Olympics in the 1970s, inspiring generations that followed.
Why he matters:
• Former national record holder.
• Olympic competitor and enduring inspiration.
Running in India — A Growing Legacy
India’s running scene has evolved dramatically — from sprinting breakthroughs on the global stage to strong performances in middle and long‑distance events. The rise of athletes like Animesh Kujur and Gulveer Singh reflects increased investment in training, coaching, and international exposure. Distance runners and sprinters alike are now regular finalists at major meets — a promising sign for future Olympic success.
