Aichi-Nagoya, 24 September (H.S.): Indian distance runner Seema Kumari created history at the Asian Games 2026 by winning the bronze medal in the women’s 10,000 metres on Thursday. She clocked 32:50.05 to finish third, ending India’s 16-year wait for a medal in the event.

Seema’s bronze is India’s third medal in the women’s 10,000m at the Asian Games. India had last won a medal in the event in 2010. The achievement also marks India’s first athletics medal at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games.

Bahrain’s Winfred Yavi claimed the gold medal with a time of 32:39.18, while Japan’s Nozomi Tanaka took silver after clocking 32:41.54.

Yavi and Tanaka were involved in a closely fought battle for gold during the closing stages of the race. Yavi eventually pulled clear to secure the top position. Seema remained composed and maintained her advantage over the runners chasing her to secure third place.

Seema stayed firmly in medal contention throughout the race. As the leading runners increased the pace, Yavi and Tanaka moved ahead in pursuit of gold, while Seema maintained her rhythm and continued to push until the finish line. Her determined effort saw her cross the line in 32:50.05 to secure the bronze medal.

Women’s 10,000m Results:

Gold — Winfred Yavi (Bahrain), 32:39.18

Silver — Nozomi Tanaka (Japan), 32:41.54

Bronze — Seema Kumari (India), 32:50.05

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar