Anushka Yadav shatters national record twice
Uttar Pradesh teenager Anushka Yadav set a new national record in the women's hammer throw on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, with a best effort of 65.64 meters. The 19-year-old from Meerut broke the record twice during the same competition, as her second attempt landed at 65.64m, surpassing her own earlier mark.
Second attempt seals the record
Yadav's first throw of the day had already exceeded the previous national record, but she improved further in her second attempt. According to officials, the throw of 65.64m is now the new national standard, eclipsing the old mark of 64.87m set by another athlete earlier this year.
Asian Games qualification achieved
With this performance, Yadav has also qualified for the upcoming Asian Games. The qualifying standard set by the Athletics Federation of India was 64.00m, which she comfortably surpassed. Her achievement highlights the growing depth in Indian women's hammer throw.
Dev Meena also qualifies for Asian Games
On the same day, pole vaulter Dev Meena cleared 5.46 meters to also book his spot for the Asian Games. Meena, representing Madhya Pradesh, achieved the qualifying mark in the same meet. Both athletes will now prepare for the continental event.
Coaching and future prospects
Yadav has been training under coach Rajesh Kumar at the Sports Authority of India center in Lucknow. She started hammer throw only three years ago and has shown rapid improvement. Her coach expressed confidence that she can improve further and challenge for a medal at the Asian Games.
