Animesh Kujur: Breaking Barriers in Indian Sprinting
Animesh Kujur is now India’s fastest man, becoming a beacon of hope for Indian sprinting. At only 22, Animesh is breaking barriers and inspiring new athletes.
Animesh Breaks the 10.20 Barrier
Animesh achieved a historic milestone by running the 100m in 10.18 seconds. This made Animesh the first Indian sprinter to break the 10.20 barrier. Animesh now has his eyes set on qualifying for the Tokyo World Athletics Championships. Animesh aims to become the first Indian to compete in the 100m and 200m sprint at the world stage.
Competing at the Diamond League
In the Monaco Diamond League, Animesh competed in the U-23 200m event. Animesh ran shoulder to shoulder with young talents like Gout Gout. Animesh clocked 20.55 and missed the podium by a fraction. Despite a strong headwind, Animesh displayed determination. Animesh showed India can compete in world-class sprinting events.
Animesh’s Journey from Chhattisgarh
Animesh hails from Ghuitangar, a small village in Chhattisgarh. During the Covid lockdown, Animesh was not training seriously for sprinting. Animesh played football and occasionally ran with army personnel near his village. One day, Animesh was encouraged to run in a local race. This changed everything for Animesh.
Animesh Joins HPC Under Martin Owens
Animesh joined the Reliance Foundation HPC under coach Martin Owens. Owens noticed Animesh’s raw speed and potential. Animesh worked hard on mobility and strength to improve his technique. Animesh’s massive frame raised doubts among some, but his speed silenced them.
Animesh Wins and Sets Records
Animesh quickly proved his talent by winning the U-23 200m in his first age-group event. At the 2025 National Games, Animesh clocked 10.28 seconds in the 100m sprint. Owens believes that was not even Animesh’s best run. Later, Animesh clocked 10.18 at the Dromia Meet in Greece, becoming India’s fastest sprinter.
Training with Determination
Animesh continues to train hard, focusing on small improvements. Animesh is learning from champions like Noah Lyles and Letsile Tebogo. Animesh observed their routines at the Diamond League and applied lessons to his own training.
Targeting the World Championships
Animesh’s goal is to qualify for the World Championships by running 10.00 in 100m and 20.16 in 200m. Animesh remains optimistic, knowing the journey requires patience. Owens believes Animesh or another top Indian sprinter can achieve this milestone.
Learning from Every Race
Animesh remains focused even when races do not go as planned. Animesh was not satisfied with his 20.55 at Monaco, which was slower than his 20.32 personal best. The strong headwind and a packed race schedule affected his performance. Still, Animesh used the experience to learn and improve.
A Busy Season Ahead for Animesh
Animesh has a packed season ahead with races in Europe and India. Animesh recently finished second at a silver standard meet in Luzern, clocking 10.28 in the 100m. Animesh will now train in Bochum, Germany, before heading back for Indian meets, building toward Tokyo.
Animesh’s Impact on Indian Sprinting
Animesh is changing the perception of Indian sprinting. Once absent from world-class sprinting conversations, India now has Animesh leading the charge. Young athletes now look up to Animesh for inspiration and guidance.
The Humility of Animesh
Despite his rapid rise, Animesh remains grounded and polite. Owens admires Animesh’s humility and desire to improve every day. Animesh continues to push himself while inspiring others to dream big.
The Future of Animesh Kujur
Animesh is determined to break the 10-second barrier in the 100m sprint. Animesh knows this milestone will not only be his achievement but also India’s. Animesh represents a shift in India’s approach to sprinting, where athletes now dare to dream bigger.
The Importance of Process
Animesh and Owens believe in trusting the process. Animesh has seen the value of consistency, discipline, and sacrifice. Missing out on simple pleasures is part of the journey for Animesh, who remains focused on his goals.
Animesh Inspires a Generation
Animesh’s journey inspires countless young athletes across India. The story of Animesh proves that talent can emerge from anywhere. Animesh is proof that with hard work, dreams can be realised.
Animesh’s Commitment to Improvement
Animesh is working on speed endurance and race technique. Every training session is an opportunity for Animesh to get better. Animesh knows consistency is key to success.
Breaking Barriers for India
Animesh’s mission is to break barriers for India in sprinting. When Animesh crosses the finish line below 10 seconds, it will be a historic moment for India. This milestone will place India firmly on the global sprinting map.
The Belief Within Animesh
Animesh believes in himself and the journey ahead. His commitment is inspiring and shows what belief can achieve. Animesh is not just racing against time but towards a better future for Indian athletics.
The Journey Continues
Animesh’s journey is far from over. With Tokyo in sight, Animesh continues to train, race, and inspire. Animesh Kujur is a name to watch in global sprinting.