Indian middle-distance runner Ankita Dhyani made history by setting a new national record in the women’s 2000m steeplechase event, clocking 6 minutes 13.92 seconds to claim gold at the Grand Slam Jerusalem athletics meet in Israel on 14 August 2025.
This World Athletics Continental Tour Silver level event saw the 23-year-old surpass the previous Indian record of 6:14.38, held by Parul Chaudhary. Dhyani’s impressive victory against strong international competition not only highlights her growing prowess but also improves her chances of qualifying for the 3000m steeplechase at the forthcoming World Championships in Tokyo. Indian athletics officials and coaches have lauded her performance as a breakthrough moment for Indian women’s distance running.
A Record-Breaking Performance on the Global Stage
Ankita Dhyani’s triumphant run in Jerusalem was marked by extraordinary focus and endurance as she completed the demanding 2000m steeplechase in 6:13.92, cutting nearly half a second from the previous national record. She outpaced Israeli athlete Adva Cohen, who finished second in 6:15.20, and Denmark’s Juliane Hvid, who claimed third place with a time of 6:17.80.
Dhyani’s achievement reflected months of rigorous training aimed at enhancing her stamina and technique, including high-altitude preparations. Speaking after the event, Dhyani dedicated her win to young athletes across India aspiring to excel on the international stage, underscoring the importance of persistence and self-belief.
Indian athletics head coach Radhakrishnan Nair confirmed that this record-breaking time would also count toward her world ranking for the 3000m steeplechase at the World Championships, strengthening her qualification prospects.
An Inspiring Journey Through National and International Circuits
Ankita’s rise from a promising youth talent to an international contender has been swift and inspiring. Hailing from Uttarakhand, she has steadily improved her performances across core middle-distance and steeplechase events. Earlier this year, Dhyani won gold medals in the 5000m and 3000m steeplechase at the Uttarakhand National Games, showcasing her dominance on the domestic circuit. She recently bagged a silver medal at the World University Games in the 3000m steeplechase with a personal best of 9:31.99.
Additionally, she represented India in the 5000m event at the 2024 Paris Olympics and secured a bronze medal at the 2023 Asian Athletics Championships in the same discipline. With each race, she has demonstrated remarkable consistency and resilience, empowering Indian women’s athletics and contributing to the growing recognition and investment in distance running.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Ankita Dhyani’s new national record and international success go beyond sport—they symbolize the potential unlocked when determination meets opportunity. Her achievements shine a light on the vital necessity of fostering and supporting women athletes in India, a country where non-cricket sports often face challenges in infrastructure and funding.
This victory reminds us how systemic encouragement in nurturing athletic talent can yield inspiring triumphs on the world stage. At The Logical Indian, we applaud Ankita’s dedication and view her success as an embodiment of hope for many young sportspersons across India. It also prompts vital reflection on the role of society, government, and sports bodies in creating viable pathways for athletes to thrive.
