Has Mohammed Afsal Set a New National Record in the 800m in Poland?
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Synopsis
In a historic achievement, Mohammed Afsal Pulikkalakath has shattered the national 800m record, clocking an impressive 1:44.93 in Poland. This milestone not only highlights his talent but also places him as a leading figure in Indian athletics. Afsal's journey from a local talent to breaking records is nothing short of inspiring.
Key Takeaways
- Afsal breaks the 1:45 barrier for the first time as an Indian runner.
- New record time set at 1:44.93 during a major athletics meet.
- Previous record of 1:45.61 was held by Afsal himself.
- The event was part of the World Athletics Continental Tour Silver.
- Afsal's accomplishments highlight the growth of athletics in India.
Mumbai, July 5 (NationPress) Mohammed Afsal Pulikkalakath has etched his name in history as the first Indian athlete to surpass the 1:45 barrier in the men's 800m category, achieving a remarkable time of 1:44.93 at the Memoriał Czesława Cybulskiego in Poznań, Poland, on Saturday.
Afsal, who previously claimed a silver medal in the men's 800m at the 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, secured the sixth position in Heat A/1 while recording his personal best of 1:44.93. This achievement surpasses his former national record of 1:45.61, which he set at the UAE Athletics Grand Prix in Dubai in 2025.
The race was dominated by Polish athletes, with Maciel Wyderka clinching the top spot in the A/1 Heat with a personal best of 1:44.23, setting a new meet record. Filip Ostrowski followed closely in second at 1:44.25, while his fellow countryman Patryk Sieradzki finished third with a time of 1:44.26.
The Czeslaw Cybulski Memorial is part of the World Athletics Continental Tour Silver. Established in 2019, this event honors coach Czesław Cybulski, a prominent figure who graduated from the Secondary Sports School in Gdansk in 1955 and contributed significantly as a trainer and physical education teacher.
Initially specializing in sprints, Cybulski later excelled in throwing events. He was deeply connected to the City of Poznan and worked with AZS Poznań from 1968.
The 29-year-old Afsal, a silver medalist in the men's 800m at the 2019 South Asian Games in Kathmandu, Nepal, hails from Palappuram in Palakkad district, Kerala. He is currently training at the Reliance Foundation in Bengaluru.
In addition to his athletic career, Afsal serves as a Junior Warrant Officer in the Indian Air Force.
Afsal first gained recognition in September 2013 by winning a gold medal at the inaugural Asian School Track and Field Championships held in Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize Mohammed Afsal's groundbreaking achievement as a significant moment for Indian athletics. His record-breaking performance not only showcases his personal dedication but also reflects the growing prowess of Indian athletes on the global stage. It is crucial for our nation to support and encourage such talent, ensuring a brighter future for sports in India.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mohammed Afsal's new record time?
Mohammed Afsal set a new national record time of 1:44.93 in the men's 800m.
Where did Afsal break the record?
Afsal broke the record at the Memoriał Czesława Cybulskiego in Poznań, Poland.
What previous record did he surpass?
He surpassed his own previous record of 1:45.61 set at the UAE Athletics Grand Prix in Dubai in 2025.
What is Afsal's background?
Afsal hails from Palappuram in Palakkad district, Kerala, and works as a Junior Warrant Officer in the Indian Air Force.
What medals has Afsal won in previous competitions?
Afsal won a silver medal in the men's 800m at the 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, and also at the 2019 South Asian Games in Kathmandu, Nepal.
