Havaldar Yoonus Shah of the Indian Army’s Golden Katar Division has made headlines by clinching a bronze medal in the men’s 1500-meter race at the prestigious 26th Asian Athletics Championships 2025. The event took place at Gumi Stadium from May 27 to May 31, showcasing Shah’s impressive finish time of 3:43.03 seconds, which placed him among Asia’s elite middle-distance runners.
This year’s championship attracted athletes from approximately 43 countries, marking it as one of the largest editions in the event’s history. Shah’s remarkable performance not only highlights his individual talent but also signifies a significant achievement for India in a fiercely competitive environment. In addition to the bronze medal, Shah received a mascot plushie, a token representing the event’s vibrant spirit. Supported by prominent global sponsors like Samsung, the championships underscored its international significance.
Originating from Pilibhit, Uttar Pradesh, Yoonus Shah has emerged as a notable contender in Indian athletics. His journey includes a previous milestone where he set a meet record of 3:51.61 minutes in the 1500m at the 2023 Khelo India University Games held in Lucknow, further showcasing his potential in the sport. Shah has openly expressed his ambition to surpass the national record of 3:35.24, currently held by Jinson Johnson since 2019, as he aspires to secure an Olympic medal for India.
The Indian Army has extended heartfelt congratulations to Shah for his achievement, emphasizing the honor he brings to both the armed forces and the country at large. His success adds to India’s burgeoning reputation in track and field across the Asian continent and serves as an inspiration for young athletes throughout the nation.
The 2025 Asian Athletics Championships concluded on May 31 and featured over 1,300 participants, coupled with a variety of cultural events, including an Asian Food Festa. Shah’s bronze medal stands out as one of the key highlights of India’s performance, signaling promising prospects for the country’s future in international athletics.
