In an electrifying display of endurance and speed, Naik Subedar Gulveer Singh has etched his name in athletics history by shattering the 13-minute barrier in the indoor 5000m.
At the David Hemery Valentine Invitational in Boston, Gulveer clocked an astonishing 12:59.77 a performance that not only sets a new National Record (NR) for India but also establishes a new Asian 5000m short track record.
This time ranks him as the 5th best in Asia of all time over the 5000m distance, an achievement that underscores his world-class talent.
Gulveer’s breakthrough run is especially remarkable considering the challenges posed by indoor tracks. With their tighter curves and often less forgiving surfaces, indoor events demand an extra blend of precision and resilience.
By overcoming these obstacles, Gulveer has not only eclipsed his previous outdoor NR of 13:11.82 but also met the qualifying standard required to compete at the 2025 World Athletics Championships.
This qualification marks a pivotal moment in his career and signals a new era for Indian long-distance running.
The atmosphere in Boston was electric as the worlds top athletes gathered for one of the fastest 5000m races in recent memory.
Olympic 1500m champion Cole Hocker clinched the victory with a time of 12:57.82, while teammates Cooper Teare and Jack Rayner also delivered stellar performances.
Despite the fierce competition, it was Gulveer Singh’s performance that captivated the crowd. His run, which broke the psychological and physical barrier of 13 minutes, is an unequivocal statement of his ability and determination.
This achievement carries profound implications beyond the record books. Breaking the 13-minute barrier indoors has elevated Gulveer’s status on the global stage, demonstrating that Indian athletes are capable of competing with and even surpassing the best in the world.
His performance is a beacon of inspiration for aspiring athletes across the nation, proving that with unwavering dedication and rigorous training, the seemingly impossible can be achieved.
Furthermore, setting the new Asian 5000m short track record adds an extra layer of prestige to Gulveer’s accomplishment. Being the 5th fastest in Asia of all time in this event places him among the elite in a region known for its competitive long-distance runners.
This milestone not only bolsters his credentials but also serves as a strong indicator of the rising standards in Indian athletics. It is a testament to the focused efforts of coaches, support staff, and sports administrators who have been working diligently to bring world-class performances to the forefront.
Qualifying for the 2025 World Athletics Championships is the next crucial step in Gulveer’s journey.
This opportunity will allow him to test his mettle against the global elite, providing invaluable experience on the world stage. His performance in Boston has set the tone for what promises to be an exciting campaign as he prepares for one of the most prestigious events in athletics.
In addition to the personal triumph, Gulveer’s achievement has broader implications for Indian athletics. It marks a significant milestone in a period characterised by rapid improvements and renewed focus on international standards.
His record-breaking run is a clear sign that the time is ripe for India to emerge as a formidable force in long-distance running, with promising talents ready to follow in his footsteps.
As the countdown to the 2025 World Athletics Championships begins, all eyes will be on Gulveer Singh. His stellar performance in Boston breaking the 13-minute barrier, setting a new Asian record, and securing his place at the World Championships serves as both an inspiration and a challenge to his competitors.
With his career now entering a new phase, Gulveer stands poised to not only continue his personal ascent but also to elevate the entire landscape of Indian athletics on the global map.
