Will Top Runners Secure Their Spots in the National Team for the Asian Cross-Country?
Synopsis
The upcoming 60th National Cross-Country Championships in Ranchi promises to be a thrilling showdown as India’s elite runners vie for spots on the national team for the Asian Cross-Country Championships. With a total of 732 athletes participating, this event marks a significant start to the 2026 athletics season.
Key Takeaways
Top runners aim for selection in the national team.
Competition includes 35 teams and 732 athletes .
Event establishes a foundation for the 2026 athletics season .
Distances range from 2km to 10km for various categories.
Significant implications for international competition.
New Delhi, Jan 23 (NationPress) As the new season unfolds, the nation’s elite runners are set to compete for a chance to join the Indian team during the 60th National Cross-Country Championships, taking place on Saturday in Ranchi, Jharkhand.
The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) will be selecting both senior and junior (U20) athletes to represent India at the upcoming Asian Cross Country Championships in Japan next month, as confirmed by AFI president Bahadur Singh Sagoo in a statement released on Friday.
According to Sagoo, the top four finishers in both the senior (men and women) and junior (men and women) categories will be chosen to join the national team during the National Cross-Country Championships.
“A 16-member national team will be formed by the AFI, including eight women athletes, for the 18th Asian Cross-Country Championships scheduled for February 21 in Fukuoka, Japan,” Sagoo stated.
A total of 35 teams, comprising affiliated state units, will take part in the National Cross-Country Championships in Ranchi, with 732 athletes including 328 female runners confirmed to participate in this first domestic event of the 2026 season.
The competition distances are set, with senior men and women running 10km, junior men competing over 8km, and U20 women racing 6km. U18 boys will tackle 6km, while U18 girls will run 4km. Finally, U16 boys and girls will cover 2km.
Previously, the national team participated in the 2026 World Athletics Cross-Country Championships on January 10, held in Tallahassee, Florida (USA). In a fiercely competitive individual 10km race, Gulveer Singh emerged as the top Indian runner, finishing in 40th place with a time of 30:39.
The Indian mixed relay team, consisting of Ajay Saroj, Pooja, Yoonus Shah, and Ankita, finished 12th overall in the 4 x 2km event, clocking in at 24 minutes 13 seconds, with each team member covering a distance of 2km.
Point of View
It is essential to highlight the significance of the National Cross-Country Championships. This event not only showcases the incredible talent of our athletes but also serves as a crucial stepping stone toward international competitions. The unity and dedication displayed during these championships reflect the spirit of Indian athletics.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where will the National Cross-Country Championships take place?
The championships will be held on Saturday in Ranchi, Jharkhand.
How many athletes are expected to participate?
A total of 732 athletes, including 328 female runners, have confirmed their participation.
What distances will the runners compete in?
Senior men and women will run 10km, junior men 8km, U20 women 6km, U18 boys 6km, U18 girls 4km, and U16 boys and girls 2km.
