Indian long-distance runner Parul Chaudhary continued her impressive form on the international stage by breaking the national record in the women’s 5000m at the Meeting Nikaïa athletics event in France. The 31-year-old clocked 15:04.26 to finish second in the race, surpassing the previous Indian mark and securing qualification for the upcoming Commonwealth Games.
The performance marked another major milestone for Parul, who has established herself as one of India’s leading distance runners. Her record-breaking run came against a strong international field and highlighted her growing consistency in elite competitions. The timing also placed her among the fastest Asian athletes in the event this season.
CWG qualification achieved
With the result, Parul comfortably achieved the Commonwealth Games qualification standard. The Indian athlete has been targeting a strong season ahead of the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games, and the latest performance provides a significant boost to her preparations.
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🚨 Parul Chaudhary shatters the Women's 5000m National Record!
— nnis Sports (@nnis_sports) June 13, 2026
India's Parul Chaudhary finished 2nd in the Women's 5000m at Meeting Nikaïa, clocking a sensational 15:04.26 to break the Indian National Record.
✅ New Indian National Record
✅ 3rd-fastest time in Asia this… pic.twitter.com/E3D4KVwXV7
Parul has enjoyed a remarkable rise in recent years, delivering strong results across both track and steeplechase events. Her ability to compete at a high level in multiple disciplines has made her one of India’s most dependable athletics stars.
Steeplechase remains the priority
Although she set a new national record in the 5000m, Parul remains focused on the 3000m steeplechase, which is expected to be her primary event at the Commonwealth Games. She is also likely to compete in both the 5000m and steeplechase at the Asian Games later this year.
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Earlier this season, Parul produced an impressive run at the Shanghai Diamond League, clocking 9:12.84 in the women’s 3000m steeplechase. The effort came close to her own national record of 9:12.46, underlining her excellent form.
The latest national record adds to an already decorated career that includes an Asian Games gold medal in the 5000m and a silver medal in the 3000m steeplechase. With major international events approaching, Parul’s performance in France signals that she will be one of India’s strongest medal contenders.
