In a powerful showcase of athletic brilliance, Indian runner Animesh and the national relay team delivered standout performances at the UAE Grand Prix 2025, rewriting the meet records in their respective categories. The event, held at the prestigious Al Nahyan Stadium in Abu Dhabi, brought together some of the best track and field athletes from across Asia and beyond. However, it was Animesh and the Indian 4x400m relay squad who stole the spotlight with their record-breaking runs.
A Stage Set for Speed
The UAE Grand Prix is one of the most anticipated athletics events in the Gulf region. Known for its top-tier organization and world-class facilities, the meet serves as a significant stepping stone for Asian athletes gearing up for global championships, including the World Athletics Championships and the Paris 2025 events. With the eyes of selectors and sports enthusiasts firmly fixed on emerging talent, the stakes were high for every participant.
This year’s edition of the Grand Prix attracted over 400 athletes representing 28 nations. For India, it was a chance to test its new crop of runners ahead of key international competitions. The Indian contingent came well-prepared, and by the end of the event, their efforts translated into not just medals but historic performances.
Animesh Shatters 400m Record
The highlight of the meet was undoubtedly Animesh’s stunning victory in the men’s 400m sprint. Clocking an impressive 45.32 seconds, he broke the existing meet record by a substantial margin. From the very start, Animesh displayed composure and command, surging ahead in the final stretch to leave his competitors trailing.
His form, stride rhythm, and finishing kick were hailed by coaches and commentators alike as textbook perfect. Animesh’s timing not only set a new benchmark at the UAE GP but also put him firmly in contention for the Indian national team’s elite squad for the Asian Championships later this year.
“I’ve been focusing on my finishing technique and endurance over the last six months. It feels incredible to see it all come together here,” Animesh said in a post-race interview. “This is just the beginning. My eyes are now on qualifying for the Worlds.”
Relay Team Sparks Electrifying Finish
Following Animesh’s solo brilliance, the Indian men’s 4x400m relay team raised the bar even higher. The quartet, consisting of Rohit, Suresh, Animesh, and Aman, clocked 3:01.56—another meet record and a personal best for the team.
Starting strong with Rohit setting a brisk pace, the baton exchange was fluid throughout, with Animesh running the third leg and giving the team a solid lead. Aman finished the final stretch with an explosive burst that sealed their place at the top of the podium.
The relay team’s time not only broke the previous UAE GP record but also marked the second-best time by an Indian relay team this season. Their synergy and coordination showcased the depth of India’s relay prospects and validated the training investments made over the past year.
Team coach Ravi Chaudhary praised the boys for their discipline and determination: “They’ve been practicing relentlessly, correcting technical errors, and building team chemistry. Their performance here shows what’s possible when every runner puts the team first.”
Rising Star Power and Strategic Gains
Animesh’s dual impact—in the individual 400m and the relay—demonstrates his rising prominence in India’s athletics scene. The UAE GP served not only as a testing ground for his speed and form but also as a morale booster for the entire team.
Sports analysts have already started referring to Animesh as one of India’s most promising 400m runners in recent years. With elite runners like Amoj Jacob and Rajesh Ramesh focusing on global-level events, Animesh’s timing brings much-needed depth to the national pool.
The broader Indian contingent also performed admirably in other events, with semi-final finishes in men’s 800m, triple jump, and women’s hurdles. But it was the track events that truly highlighted India’s rising potential in sprint categories.
UAE GP: A Platform of International Prestige
The UAE Grand Prix continues to solidify its position as a vital event in the athletics calendar. With state-of-the-art facilities, world-class timing technology, and international judges, the meet offers a professional environment comparable to European circuits.
This year’s edition saw participation from runners of Japan, Kenya, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. Despite the fierce competition, the Indian team’s record-setting performances set them apart and added a fresh chapter to the nation’s athletic achievements abroad.
Organizers of the UAE GP commended the discipline, preparation, and sportsmanship displayed by the Indian team. They also expressed hopes that this event would inspire further cooperation between Gulf and South Asian athletics federations to foster talent across borders.
Future Focus: What Lies Ahead
For Animesh and the relay team, the road ahead is both exciting and demanding. The next big target is the Asian Athletics Championships, scheduled to take place in Jakarta this August. With qualification rounds starting soon, maintaining form and avoiding injuries will be critical.
Animesh, who is now under the radar of global scouts, has reportedly received invitations to train in European circuits this summer—a development that could provide valuable exposure and experience.
Meanwhile, the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) is closely monitoring the progress of the relay team, considering additional investment into sports science, nutrition, and biomechanics support to further improve timings.
National Pride and International Promise
The UAE GP has proven to be more than just another meet—it has become a defining moment for Animesh and his teammates. Their ability to rise to the occasion, break records, and perform under pressure reflects the growing maturity of Indian athletics on the global stage.
These victories serve as a source of pride not only for the athletes but also for millions of fans who have long awaited India’s resurgence in sprint events. From schools to sports academies, young athletes are now looking up to performers like Animesh as proof that with hard work and the right support, global excellence is achievable.
Conclusion
Animesh’s record-breaking 400m run and the relay team’s electrifying gold finish have infused fresh energy into Indian athletics. Their achievements at the UAE Grand Prix symbolize a new chapter of determination, discipline, and dreams coming true.
With the momentum gained from this event, India’s track stars are now well-positioned to make a strong statement on the Asian and global stage. The journey ahead will require consistency, resilience, and strategic focus—but if the UAE GP is any indication, the best is yet to come.
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