History Rewritten: Avinash Sable Ends India's 36-Year Wait for Steeplechase Gold!
Avinash Sable's journey to success is an inspiration to many. Born on September 13, 1994, in Mandwa, a village in Maharashtra's Beed district, Sable grew up in a family of farmers. He would often run or walk 6 km to school, developing a natural aptitude for running. His talent was recognized by his primary school teacher, Babasaheb Taware, who encouraged him to participate in local competitions.Sable's early life was marked by hard work and determination. He worked on brick kilns and construction sites to support his family while attending junior college. After completing his 12th grade, he joined the Indian Army, where he was posted at the Siachen Glacier and later in Sikkim. It was during his time in the army that he took up cross-country running, which eventually led him to specialize in the 3000m steeplechase event.Rise to ProminenceSable's breakthrough moment came in 2018 when he broke the 37-year-old national record of 8:30.88 held by Gopal Saini, clocking 8:29.80 at the National Open Championships in Bhubaneswar. This achievement marked the beginning of his meteoric rise in the athletics world. He went on to set multiple national records, including a time of 8:09.91 at the 2024 Paris Diamond League, his tenth national record.History Made: Avinash Sable Ends India's 36-Year Wait for GoldAvinash Sable etched his name in the annals of Indian athletics history by winning the gold medal in the men's 3000m steeplechase at the 2025 Asian Athletics Championships, ending a 36-year wait for India in this event. Sable's remarkable achievement marked a significant milestone for Indian athletics, showcasing his exceptional endurance and skill. With a season-best time of 8:20.92s, Sable outpaced his competitors, demonstrating his dominance in the event and cementing his position as a trailblazer in Indian athletics. This historic victory is a light to Sable's dedication and perseverance, inspiring a new generation of athletes and bringing pride to the nation An Amazing Career Avinash Sable's impressive career is marked by numerous achievements that have etched his name in the walls of Indian athletics. He made history by winning the first-ever gold medal for India in men's steeplechase at the 2022 Asian Games, showcasing his exceptional endurance and skill. Sable further solidified his reputation by claiming a silver medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, setting a new national record time of 8:11.20. His remarkable performances earned him qualification spots for the 2020 and 2024 Summer Olympics, where he became the first Indian athlete to qualify for the final of the 3000m steeplechase event. Recognizing his outstanding contributions to athletics, Sable was honored with the prestigious Arjuna Award in 2022.Sable's recent win at the Asian Athletics Championships 2025 was a proof to his perseverance and skill. He clocked a season-best 8:20.92s, overtaking Japan's Yutaro Niinae in the last lap to claim the gold medal. This victory marked the end of India's 36-year wait for a continental gold in this event, solidifying Sable's position as a trailblazer in Indian athletics.Avinash Sable's success has not only brought glory to India but also inspired a generation of young athletes. His achievements have highlighted the need for better infrastructure and facilities in rural areas, sparking discussions about investment in sports development. As Sable continues to represent India on the international stage, his legacy extends beyond his medals, inspiring others to pursue careers in athletics.With his determination and talent, Avinash Sable is set to continue making India proud, pushing the boundaries of Indian athletics, and inspiring future generations of athletes.
