Sawan Barwal Breaks 48-Year-Old National Marathon Record in Rotterdam
Sawan Barwal Scripts History In Marathon! Breaks 48-Year-Old National Record
News 18
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Sawan Barwal made history by breaking a 48-year-old national marathon record at the NN Marathon Rotterdam, clocking 2:11:58 in his debut marathon. This achievement surpasses the previous record of 2:12:00 set by Shivnath Singh in 1978, showcasing Barwal's remarkable transition from shorter races to the marathon distance.
- 01Sawan Barwal broke the national marathon record with a time of 2:11:58.
- 02The previous record of 2:12:00 was held for 48 years by Shivnath Singh.
- 03Barwal finished 20th in a competitive elite field during his marathon debut.
- 04He previously excelled in shorter long-distance events and half marathons.
- 05Barwal is an Indian Army personnel and has won multiple national titles.
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Sawan Barwal, a runner from Joginder Nagar in Mandi district, Himachal Pradesh, India, made a significant mark in Indian athletics by breaking the national marathon record at the NN Marathon Rotterdam. He completed the marathon in 2:11:58, surpassing the previous record of 2:12:00 set by Shivnath Singh in 1978. This was Barwal's first official marathon, and he finished 20th in a highly competitive field. His race strategy was methodical; he crossed the halfway point in 1:04:43 and improved his position as the race progressed. Barwal, who has a background in shorter races and is a personnel in the Indian Army since 2019, has shown remarkable endurance and preparation. His achievements include a bronze medal at the 2023 Asian Half Marathon Championships and national titles in the 5000m and 10000m events during the 2025 National Games.
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Barwal's record-breaking performance is likely to inspire young athletes in India, particularly in Himachal Pradesh, and could lead to increased support for long-distance running programs.
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