Pooja Singh wins gold, breaks national record at Asian U20 C'ships

Pooja Singh delivered a historic performance at the Asian U20 Athletics Championships, winning gold in the women's high jump. Her 1.93m jump not only secured the top spot but also broke a 14-year-old national record held by Sahana Kumari.

Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya congratulated India's Pooja Singh for her gold-medal performance at the Asian U20 Athletics Championships 2026. He praised her record-breaking 1.93m jump, which set a new national record, and wished her success for a bright future.

Pooja Singh Sets New National High Jump Record

Pooja Singh delivered a historic performance by clearing 1.93m in the women's high jump to break the long-standing national record held by Sahana Kumari for 14 years at the U20 Athletics Championships 2026 in Hong Kong on Friday. The remarkable effort also earned the youngster the gold medal.

"Soaring to new heights! Stellar performance by TOPS athlete Pooja to win Gold at the Asian U20 Athletics Championships. Her 1.93m jump breaks the National Record. Wishing her the best for a bright future!" Mandaviya wrote in an Instagram post.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dr Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya)

India's Strong Showing at the Championships

A total of 48 Indian athletes, 30 men and 18 women, are representing the country at the Asian U20 Athletics Championships 2026 in Hong Kong, being held from May 28 to 31. The Athletics Federation of India selected the squad based on performances in domestic competitions, including the Junior Federation Cup held in Tumakuru in April.

Indian athletes will also be aiming to secure qualification for the World U20 Athletics Championships 2026, set to be held at Hayward Field from August 5 to 9.

Decathlon Delight: Rahul Jakhar Clinches Gold

Meanwhile, in the decathlon, Rahul Jakhar clinched gold as India secured a dominant 1-2 finish, with Upkar taking silver. Rahul also set a new U20 national record with 7,185 points, achieving personal bests in seven of the 10 events during an outstanding all-round display. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)