Introduction
In the realm of Indian athletics, Avinash Sable has carved a niche for himself, emerging as one of the country’s most promising distance runners.
Specialising in the 3000 metres steeplechase, Sable’s journey from a small village in Maharashtra to breaking national records on the global stage is a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence.
Early Life and Background
Avinash Sable was born on September 13, 1994, in Mandwa, a village in the Beed district of Maharashtra. Growing up in a region often plagued by drought and harsh climatic conditions, Sable’s early years were marked by challenges that would later shape his resilience.
His family, primarily engaged in farming, instilled in him the values of hard work and perseverance from a young age. Sable’s tryst with running began during his school days, where he would have to walk or run and cover a distance of 6 kilometres in order to reach school as there was no transport facility available in his village.
However, his athletic potential truly came to the fore during his time in the Indian Army. Joining the 5 Mahar Regiment, Sable’s talent was spotted by his superiors, and he was encouraged to pursue athletics seriously.
The disciplined environment of the army played a crucial role in moulding his athletic career, providing him with the structure and support needed to excel.
Rise to Prominence
Sable’s rise in the national athletics scene was swift. He first made headlines in 2018 when he shattered the national record in the 3000 metres steeplechase at the Indian National Open Championships, clocking a time of 8:29.80.
He set a new record in 2019 at the Federation Cup by clocking 8:28.94 as a result of which he qualified for the 2019 Asian Athletics Championships and the 2019 World Athletics Championships.
He won a silver medal at the Asian Athletic Championships and broke his own national record at the World Championships by clocking 8:25.23 in the heats.
Competing against some of the best steeplechasers in the world, he clocked an impressive 8:21.37 in the finals, once again breaking his own national record. His performance was remarkable, considering the stiff competition and the gruelling conditions of the event.
Sable’s time secured him a spot at the Tokyo Olympics, making him one of the few Indian athletes to achieve this distinction in middle-distance running.
Tokyo Olympics and Beyond
The 2020 Tokyo Olympics were a defining moment in Sable’s career. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted training and competitions worldwide, Sable remained focused on his goal.
In the heats, he clocked a commendable 8:18.12, setting a new national record and narrowly missing out on qualifying for the finals. While he did not advance, his performance was lauded for its tenacity and marked a significant improvement from his previous records.
Post-Olympics, Sable’s career has continued to ascend. He has consistently broken national records, further lowering his times and setting new benchmarks for Indian athletics.
In 2022, he clinched a silver medal at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, clocking an impressive 8:11.20, once again breaking the national record and showcasing his ability to compete at the highest levels. Let’s have a look at the medals won by Avinash on international stages –
- A silver medal at the 2019 Asian Athletics Championships.
- A silver medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games.
- A gold and a silver medal at the 2022 Asian Games.
Having been qualified for the 2024 Paris Olympics, Avinash’s eyes are set for the ultimate glory; an Olympic medal.
Training and Technique
Avinash Sable‘s success can be attributed to a combination of rigorous training, scientific approach, and mental fortitude.
Under the guidance of renowned coach Amrish Kumar, Sable has honed his technique and endurance, focusing on the unique demands of the steeplechase, which combines long-distance running with obstacles and water jumps.
Training at high-altitude locations like Ooty and Bengaluru, Sable’s regimen includes a mix of long runs, interval training, strength conditioning, and technique drills. His ability to maintain a steady pace, combined with efficient hurdle technique and quick recovery, has been pivotal in his record-breaking performances.
Conclusion
Avinash Sable’s achievements have had a profound impact on Indian athletics, inspiring a new generation of distance runners.
His journey from a village in Maharashtra to the global stage is a story of perseverance and dedication, resonating with aspiring athletes across the country. Sable’s success has also brought attention to the steeplechase, a relatively obscure event in Indian athletics.
His performances have highlighted the potential of Indian athletes in middle and long-distance running, encouraging investment in infrastructure, coaching, and support systems.
As he continues to push boundaries and set new records, Avinash Sable is undoubtedly a beacon of hope and inspiration for Indian athletics.
His journey is a testament to the fact that with determination, hard work, and the right support, athletes from even the most humble beginnings can achieve greatness on the world stage.
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