Parul Chaudhary Smashes National Record in 5,000 m, Secures Spot for the Commonwealth Games

It was a chilly evening in Strasbourg, France, when Parul Chaudhary stepped onto the track with a quiet determination that belied the thunderous applause that would follow. The 25‑year‑old from Haryana had already been knocking on the door of greatness, but what she did that day took the entire Indian athletics community by surprise.

Running the 5,000 m in a blistering 15:03.72, Parul not only sliced a second off the long‑standing national record but also punched her ticket to the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham. The previous record, set by P.T. Usha’s protege in 2016, had seemed untouchable, yet Parul’s steady cadence and fierce finishing kick proved otherwise.

"I was just focusing on my own rhythm," Parul said, a smile tugging at the corner of her mouth after the race. "When the gun went off, I tried to stay relaxed, breathe, and trust the training that my coach and I have put in over the years."

The race itself was a masterclass in patience and tactical awareness. Parul stayed tucked behind the early leaders, conserving energy while the pack jostled for position. At the 3,200‑metre mark, she surged ahead, her stride lengthening as if the finish line were a magnetic pull. By the time she crossed it, the stadium erupted, and the timing board flashed the new record in bold numbers.

For Indian athletics, Parul’s performance is more than just a new record; it’s a signal that the country’s women distance runners are closing the gap with the world’s best. The Commonwealth Games, slated for next August, will see her line up against seasoned competitors from Kenya, England, and Australia. The expectation is high, but Parul remains grounded.

"I’m grateful for the support – from my family, my coach, and the federation," she added. "This is just the beginning. I’ll keep working, keep improving, and hope to make India proud on the bigger stages."

As the sun set over the French track, Parul’s achievement illuminated a path for many young athletes back home, proving that with grit, perseverance, and a dash of daring, records are meant to be broken.