A national record, three medals and a proud homecoming for Coimbatore’s Vithya Ramraj
In a week of milestones and celebration, 28-year-old hurdler Vithya Ramraj of Meenakshipuram in Coimbatore shattered a 42-year-old national record, collected three medals at the 2026 Asian Games in Japan, and returned home to a hero’s welcome.
Record-breaking run in Japan
On September 28, at the Asian Games, Vithya clinched the bronze medal in the women’s 400m hurdles, clocking a personal best of 54.75 seconds. The performance made her the first Indian woman to break the 55-second barrier in the event and eclipsed the longstanding national record of 55.42 seconds set by P.T. Usha at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics.
Her campaign in Japan extended beyond the hurdles. Vithya also struck gold in the women’s 4x400m relay and added a silver in the mixed 4x400m relay, underlining her versatility and consistency across the Games.
From near-miss to national record
Vithya had equalled Usha’s mark in 2023 but was unable to better it then. The disappointment fuelled her resolve to return stronger. “I was sad in 2023 that I could not break the record. Now, I am happy that I have done it,” she said, reflecting on the journey from a near-miss to a record-setting finish.
A family’s sacrifices
Behind the medals is a story of grit and sacrifice. Vithya’s father, S. Ramraj, a truck driver, recalled the family’s struggle to support her dream. “There were times when we did not have enough income to support her athletics. Even buying a pair of shoes was difficult. We somehow managed to arrange the money for her. Her twin sister Nithya helped her with her salary, and I would work extra shifts and put together the money,” he said.
The family’s involvement went beyond finances. Her mother, R. Meena, frequently travelled with her to competitions. “We had not thought that she would excel this much. Sports helped her complete her schooling and her undergraduate programme,” Mr. Ramraj added, noting how the discipline of athletics supported their daughters’ education as well.
From hockey to hurdles
The twins’ first steps in sport were taken on a hockey field at school, where their physical training teacher encouraged them to pursue athletics seriously. That guidance led them to the Erode Girls Sports Hostel while they were in Class VII, a turning point that set the foundation for their future careers.
“It was there that they started concentrating on athletics. Both of them began together, but later they chose different events. Nithya went into the shorter sprints, while Vithya took up the 400m hurdles,” Mr. Ramraj said.
Coaching, discipline and the competitive edge
Vithya credits coach Nehpal Singh Rathore with instilling the discipline and endurance needed to compete at the highest level. “If not for him, I would not have reached this level,” she said, emphasising how rigorous training has taught her to stay composed and committed through every race.
Her racing philosophy reflects that mindset. “I would just watch the runner ahead of me after receiving the baton and try to pass her. In every race, I give my fullest,” Vithya said, describing the approach that has served her not just in hurdles but also in high-stakes relay legs.
A hero’s welcome in Meenakshipuram
On Saturday, October 3, Vithya returned to Meenakshipuram to a heartfelt reception. A procession from Nachipalayam wound through the village as residents burst firecrackers, distributed sweets and showered flowers on their Asian Games medallist and newly minted national record-holder. The homecoming underscored the pride her achievements have brought to the community.
Looking ahead
Even amid the celebrations, Vithya remains focused on what lies ahead. “Setting the record is a proud moment, but I know there is more to achieve. I want to compete strongly at the international level and aim for better performances at the upcoming World Championships and Olympic Games,” she said.
For Meenakshipuram, and for Indian athletics, Vithya’s week marked more than medals and a record—it was a testament to perseverance, family support and the enduring pursuit of excellence.
