Vithya Ramraj Breaks PT Usha's Record to Clinch Asian Games Bronze
Vithya Ramraj makes history by breaking PT Usha's 42-year-old national record to clinch bronze in the 400m hurdles at the Asian Games.
Indian track sensation Vithya Ramraj has etched her name into the history books at the Asian Games 2026, securing a bronze medal in the women's 400m hurdles. In a performance that stunned spectators, Ramraj did more than just win a medal; she shattered a legendary national record that had stood untouched for over four decades.
A Historic Leap Over a Legend
The highlight of the final at the Mizuho Stadium in Nagoya was Ramraj's incredible timing. She clocked a personal best of 54.75 seconds, officially surpassing the long-standing national record of 55.42 seconds set by the "Golden Girl" of Indian athletics, PT Usha, during the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. This feat marks the end of a 42-year era for the previous record.
Despite the challenging weather conditions, where rain and drizzle left the track moist and difficult to navigate, Ramraj showed immense technical skill. She successfully cleared all ten hurdles to secure her place on the podium.
The Podium Standings
- Gold: Mariam Kareem (UAE) – 54.31 seconds (Games Record)
- Silver: Adelina Zems (Kazakhstan) – 54.58 seconds
- Bronze: Vithya Ramraj (India) – 54.75 seconds
Coach Nizamudeen Eyes Gold in Relay
Southern Railways Chief Athletics Coach, Nizamudeen, expressed immense pride in his athlete's achievement. He noted that while the bronze is a monumental success, the momentum is firmly with the Indian contingent.
"Vithya Ramraj has clinched a bronze medal in the Asian Games, creating a new national record with a time of 54.75 seconds, and she broke the 42-year-old record of India set by the Golden Girl of India, PT Usha, in the year 1984," Nizamudeen told ANI.
The coach is now turning his gaze toward the upcoming women's 4x400m relay. With Ramraj having already secured silver and bronze in her previous outings, the coaching staff and fans alike are holding their breath for a gold medal finish.
"Tomorrow she is also having a 4x400 women's relay. I hope that the team will also get a gold medal. She got one silver, one bronze, and is missing a gold. I hope she will get gold," Nizamudeen added, expressing his confidence in the relay squad.