Avinash Sable: India's Steeplechase Sensation Eyes Paris 2024 Glory

Avinash Sable, who broke the national 3000m steeplechase record at the Diamond League Paris, is preparing for the Paris 2024 Olympics. Influenced by legends like Milkha Singh, his journey from the Indian Army to international athletics sets aim on an Olympic medal after his 2022 Asian Games and Commonwealth Games successes.

Avinash Sable, who recently smashed the national record in the 3000m steeplechase for the tenth time with an impressive 8 minutes and 9.91 seconds at the Diamond League in Paris, is eagerly gearing up for the Olympics. The 2022 Asian Games gold medallist reflected on his starting days, inspirations, preparations, and aspirations for Paris 2024.

Sable credits legendary Indian athletes such as Milkha Singh, Sriram Singh, and PT Usha as his inspirations. "Their performances on the world stage deeply inspired me. If my role models can excel globally, so can I. I've been taught to focus on my progress rather than others. My competition is with my timing," he shared on JioCinema's 'The Dreamers' show. Sable's journey into sports began with his service in the Indian Army, where he started as a cross-country runner before transitioning to steeplechase under coach Amrish Kumar. "The rigorous training in the army has made me stronger, both physically and mentally," he noted.

Since breaking the national record for the first time in 2018, Sable has continuously pushed his limits. "My goal has always been self-improvement rather than focusing on the competition. This mindset has allowed me to break the national record ten times," Sable proudly noted. He also reflected on his silver medal performance at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, which boosted his confidence to compete at the highest levels. "My aim at the Commonwealth Games was to compete against the Kenyan athletes. Finishing second by a fraction of a second gave me the confidence that we can compete against the best in the world."

As he prepares for Paris 2024, Sable is focused on his training regimen and aims to bring home a medal. "I used to think Olympic medalists had a unique and difficult approach to training, but my experiences over the past two years have boosted my confidence. I don't want to just participate; I believe I can win a medal," Sable expressed with determination. "I am working hard with my eyes set on that goal. If everything falls into place and I win a medal, it will be dedicated to our country." Avinash Sable, who clinched gold at the Hangzhou Asian Games and silver at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, will be competing in the 3000m men's steeplechase event at Paris Olympics 2024.

(With inputs from agencies.)