Indian athletics has a new record holder. Ancy Sojan produced the performance of her career at the National Inter-State Athletics Championships in Bhubaneswar, breaking Anju Bobby George’s long-standing women’s long jump national record that had remained untouched for 22 years.
The Kerala jumper registered a best effort of 6.88 metres to go past the previous national mark of 6.83 metres, set by Anju Bobby George during the 2004 Athens Olympics. The historic jump also earned Ancy the gold medal and marked the biggest achievement of her career so far.
Record-breaking performance
Ancy showed excellent consistency throughout the competition before producing the record-breaking leap. Her winning jump was also well above her previous personal best, highlighting the remarkable progress she has made this season.
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The performance strengthens her position as one of India’s top long jumpers and boosts her confidence ahead of upcoming international competitions.
What just happened???????? 🤯🤩
— The Khel India (@TheKhelIndia) June 27, 2026
Ancy Sojan broke the 22 year old National Record with 6.88m Jump in Women's Long Jump
That's so crazyyyyyy! 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/m8HfqJn9Wb
It also reflects the growing standard of Indian athletics, with athletes continuing to raise the bar across multiple events.
Memorable day for Indian athletics
The women’s long jump competition was highly competitive. Shaili Singh finished second with a jump of 6.67 metres, while Mubassina Mohammed secured third place with 6.53 metres. All three athletes crossed the qualifying standard for the upcoming Asian Games, although only two can eventually represent India in the event.
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The National Inter-State Championships also witnessed another record, with Sarvesh Kushare clearing 2.31 metres to set a new national mark in the men’s high jump.
For Indian athletics, Ancy’s achievement is a landmark moment. Anju Bobby George’s record had stood as one of the country’s most celebrated achievements for more than two decades. By surpassing it, Ancy has announced herself on the biggest stage and opened a new chapter in Indian women’s long jump. Her historic leap is expected to inspire the next generation of athletes while reinforcing India’s growing strength in track and field.
