India's Parul Chaudhary continued her impressive rise in international athletics by securing qualification for the upcoming Commonwealth Games with a record-breaking performance in France. The 31-year-old distance runner clocked 15:04.26 in the women's 5000m at the Meeting Nikaïa athletics event, finishing second and setting a new national record in the process. The effort not only improved India's previous best mark in the event but also underlined Parul's growing stature as one of the country's leading track athletes. Known primarily for her success in the 3000m steeplechase, Parul has consistently delivered strong performances across multiple distance events over the last few years. Her latest achievement comes at a crucial stage of the season, with the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games on the horizon. Having already established herself as an Asian Games gold medallist and Olympian, Parul's record-breaking run in France has further strengthened expectations of another successful international campaign.
Who is Parul Chaudhary?
Parul Chaudhary is one of India's most accomplished long-distance runners and a leading figure in the country's athletics setup. Hailing from Uttar Pradesh, she specialises in the 3000m steeplechase and 5000m events and has earned recognition for her consistent performances on the international stage.
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Parul first made a major impact in Asian athletics through her success in steeplechase competitions before expanding her presence in long-distance track events. Her breakthrough came at the 2022 Asian Games, where she won a gold medal in the women's 5000m and a silver medal in the 3000m steeplechase, establishing herself as one of India's premier track athletes.
¨ 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 Nika¯a, 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
Over the years, Parul has repeatedly rewritten national records and represented India at some of the biggest competitions in world athletics, including the Paris 2024 Olympics. Known for her endurance, tactical racing and ability to compete across multiple events, she has become a key member of the Indian athletics contingent.
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The 31-year-old continues to push the boundaries of Indian distance running. In 2026, she added another milestone to her career by breaking the national record in the women's 5000m during a meet in France, a performance that also secured her qualification for the upcoming Commonwealth Games. Her achievements have made her one of India's strongest medal contenders on the international circuit.
