Chandigarh University’s Tanya Chaudhary delivered a standout performance at the 2026 Inter-University Athletics Championships, producing a throw that surpassed the long-standing women’s hammer throw national record. Her effort underlined her growing stature in Indian athletics, even as questions remain over official recognition.
Chaudhary registered a best throw of 65.60 metres to secure the gold medal, comfortably finishing ahead of Nandini (61.84m) and Grima (56.46m). The mark exceeded the existing national record of 65.25m, set by Sarita Singh in 2017, by 35 centimetres.
Despite the historic distance, the achievement will not enter the official record books. The Inter-University Athletics Championships is not recognised by World Athletics, which means Chaudhary’s throw cannot be ratified as a national record. Additionally, according to a report, she was not subjected to a dope test by the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) following her performance.
The throw marked a significant leap in Chaudhary’s career, improving on her previous personal best of 63.91m, achieved in August last year. The performance reflects her steady progression at the national level. Chaudhary has prior international exposure, having represented India at the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou, where she finished seventh with a best throw of 60.50m.
While the record may remain unofficial, Chaudhary’s display at the championships reinforces her potential and signals a promising phase ahead in her hammer throw journey.
