Himanshu Jakhar threw 79.96m in the under-18 javelin qualifying round at the National Junior Athletics Championships, smashing Neeraj Chopra’s 2014 meet record of 76.50m.

Jakhar, the reigning Asian under-18 champion, booked his place in the 2026 World Under-20 Championships. He had won gold in Saudi Arabia earlier this year with a throw of 67.57m. His latest mark exceeded the World Under-20 qualification standard of 68.50m.

Jakhar’s performance stunned spectators at Kalinga Stadium. His throw showed sharp improvement and placed him among India’s top junior athletes. Coaches praised his technique and consistency.

Mohit Choudhary also impressed in the under-20 men’s 5000m, clocking 14:09.71 to set a new meet record. Alice Vikal broke the national shot put record in the under-16 girls’ cat

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