New Delhi: Veteran Indian discus thrower Seema Punia showcased her remarkable skill and determination by securing a silver medal at the Qosanov Memorial athletics meet in Almaty, Kazakhstan on Saturday. The 39-year-old athlete, who previously claimed the Asian Games championship in 2014, delivered an impressive performance by propelling the disc to a distance of 57.35m, securing her well-deserved second-place finish. This event marked Seema's second competition of the season, and she demonstrated her consistent prowess in the field.
The gold medal was awarded to Subenrat Insaeng of Thailand, who achieved a remarkable throw of 59.67m. Meanwhile, Karina Vasilyeva, a local athlete, earned the bronze medal with a throw of 47.70m in a highly competitive field consisting of six talented women.
Seema's remarkable achievement not only earned her the silver medal but also surpassed the qualifying standard of 57m set by the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) for the Asian Games. Her exceptional performance showcased her immense potential and underlined her eligibility for selection in the prestigious sporting event.
In line with the AFI's requirements, participation in the National Inter-State Championships, held in Bhubaneswar from June 15-19, was mandatory for athletes vying for a spot on the Asian Games team. Seema rose to the occasion and claimed the gold medal at the championships with a remarkable throw of 56.50m, reinforcing her standing as one of India's top discus throwers.
Seema's personal best remains an outstanding 64.84m, a record she set back in 2004. Her consistent achievements and unwavering dedication to her craft have solidified her reputation as a prominent figure in Indian athletics.
As Seema continues to defy age and push her boundaries, her remarkable silver medal at the Qosanov Memorial athletics meet serves as a testament to her enduring talent and serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes across the nation.
(With Inputs from PTI)