DAINIK NATION BUREAU/DEHRADUN
A historic moment unfolded in the men’s 20 km race walk event at the 38th National Games in Uttarakhand as a 14-year-old record was shattered. Gurmeet Singh’s 2011 record of 1 hour 23 minutes 26 seconds was surpassed by six Indian athletes, showcasing the rising standard of race walking in India.
Servin Sebastian from Services led the pack with a stellar performance, completing the race in 1 hour 21 minutes 23 seconds and setting a new National Games record. His achievement not only broke the long-standing record but also raised the bar for future athletes.
Joining him in rewriting history were Suraj Panwar (Uttarakhand), Amanjot Singh (Punjab), Paramjeet Singh (Services), Ram Babu (Uttar Pradesh), and Mukesh Nitharwal (Rajasthan), all of whom completed the race faster than Gurmeet Singh’s 2011 timing.
Cervin’s record-breaking performance solidifies his position as one of India’s top race walkers, while the collective achievement of the six athletes reflects the significant progress in athletics training and competition. The event has added a memorable chapter to the National Games, inspiring a new generation of athletes to aim higher in the sport.