Indian Open Race Walking Competition 2025: Priyanka Goswami Eyes Asian Athletics Berth

The picturesque Sukhna Lake in Chandigarh will serve as the backdrop for the 12th edition of the Indian Open Race Walking competition this on Saturday (April 19). This event promises to be a significant opportunity for athletes aiming to secure their spots for the Asian and World Championships.

Among the participants, two-time Olympian and national record holder, Priyanka Goswami, is set to headline the women's 20km race, with her sights firmly set on surpassing the Asian Athletics Championships qualification time of 1:32:00.

Over 200 elite athletes from across India have been drawn to this prestigious competition. They will be flagged off by Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, the Hon'ble Governor of Punjab and Administrator of Chandigarh. The event has garnered attention not just for its elite competitors but also for its beautiful setting, which is expected to inspire outstanding performances.

Priyanka Goswami, a seasoned athlete with a record-breaking performance of 1:28:45 in the women's 20km back in 2021, is confident about her preparation. "I'm fit and should be able to clock a good time tomorrow," she stated, indicating her readiness to tackle the challenge ahead. This year, Goswami also set a new national record in the women's 35km race walk, further cementing her status as a top contender.

The men's field is equally competitive, especially in the 20km race walk, which will see 46 elite athletes vying for the top spot. The majority of these competitors hail from the Indian Army, known for their rigorous training and endurance. The event's qualification time for men is set at 1:24:00, a testament to the high standards expected at the Asian meet.

Akshdeep Singh, a Paris Olympian, holds the national men's 20km record with a time of 1:19:55, achieved earlier this year. Along with Paramjeet Singh Bisht, he is considered a frontrunner for the podium. Both athletes express optimism about their prospects, with Singh highlighting the excellent route conditions as a factor that could lead to exceptional times.

The competition extends to the 35km race walk, with a significant turnout from the Indian army in the men's category. Leading their charge is international race walker Ram Baboo. The women's group, though smaller, is fiercely competitive, featuring athletes like Manju Rani, Ramandeep Kaur, and Payal, all aiming for qualification times that would secure them a place at the World Championships.

For younger athletes, the U20 boys and girls categories offer a platform to showcase their talents, with 48 participants in the boys' section alone. This event not only highlights the depth of race walking talent in India but also serves as a crucial step for those looking to make an impact on the international stage.