Sawan Barwal ends India’s 44-year-old wait for Asiad marathon silver with steady race pace

On September 26, 2026, Sawan Barwal achieved a historic milestone in Indian athletics as he secured silver in the men's marathon at the Asian Games in Nagoya, ending India's 44-year wait for a marathon medal. The 28-year-old runner, who had only recently taken up marathon training, clocked a time of 2:11:37, setting a new national record.

Barwal, who began his marathon journey only a year ago, had trained intensively with coach Scott Simmons, focusing on long sessions and marathon simulations in preparation for the event. Competing in only his second marathon, Barwal followed a strategy of staying in the middle of the pack, refusing to make the wrong moves, and maintaining a steady pace.

As the race progressed, Barwal faced challenges, including a dip in pace at the 15-kilometer mark and an uphill stretch at 30 kilometers. However, he persevered, covering up lost ground and eventually clawing back to secure the silver medal, just behind Japan's Ichitaka Yamashita. Barwal's achievement marked a significant moment for Indian athletics, ending a long-standing wait for a marathon medal and putting India back on the men's marathon podium.