22-year-old long distance runner Yeshnil Karan broke the national record by 15 seconds for the 5,000m, at the Queensland 5,000m Championships at UQ Tracks on Saturday.
The Yaladro, Tavua native clocked a very impressive time of 14 mins 31.73 secs to improve his previous best by a massive 55 seconds.
In doing so, he broke the record of 14 mins 46.40 secs set by Davendra Prakash Singh, in Melbourne, in November 1993 and bettered performances by legends such as Rick Kermode and Usaia Sotutu.
Former record holder, Singh, in offering his congratulations said “Records are meant to be broken. This is a proud moment for me, having held the record for a long time.”
“The setting of the new national record is not only a personal achievement but also a source of pride for the entire nation.”
“It showcases the talent, dedication, and hard work of the Yeshnil, who has achieved such a milestone very early in his career.”
“Setting new records are a testament to the collective efforts and commitment of the people involved,” said Singh.
Meanwhile, 20-year-old Evueli Toia, from Delakado Village Tailevu, improved his time by 56 seconds to clock 15 mins 40.70 secs, to move to number 10 on the All-time Ranking List, ahead of the celebrated Shiri Chand “Mushroom” personal best time 47 years ago in 1976.
Toia finished on only 0.07 second behind 2022 Pacific Mini Games Silver medalist Siune Kagl, from PNG, in his race.
This was Karan and Toia’s final competition before they fly to Honiara, Solomon Islands to take part in the Pacific Games, with Athletics Competition starting on Monday, 27th November 2023.
