Avinash Mukund Sable

Avinash Sable holds the Indian national record in the men’s 3000m steeplechase with a time of 8:09.91, which he set in Paris in July 2024. Additionally, he has a personal best of 13:19.30 in the 5000m. However, this time is not a national record, as Gulveer Singh holds the Indian men’s 5000m national record.

Avinash Sable is an Indian Army serviceman who joined the Mahar Regiment after completing his schooling. During his military career, he served at the Siachen Glacier and received postings in other regions. Meanwhile, his exposure to physically demanding conditions helped build his endurance. He initially began competitive running through Army cross-country competitions. Subsequently, he shifted his focus to the 3000m steeplechase, which became his specialist event.

Avinash Sable hails from Mandva village in Maharashtra’s Beed district. He grew up in a farming family, where daily life involved physical work and long walks. In fact, he regularly covered several kilometres on foot to reach school. Consequently, these early experiences helped develop his endurance. Later, he joined the Indian Army, which marked the beginning of his journey towards becoming an internationally recognised athlete.

Avinash Sable has worked with several coaches throughout his career, including Army coach Amrish Kumar and former coach Nikolai Snesarev. Subsequently, Kalyan Chaudhary supported his preparation through the Athletics Federation of India. Meanwhile, his coaching arrangements have evolved over the years, reflecting changes in his training base, preparation methods and competition goals.

Avinash Sable reached the men’s 3000m steeplechase final at the Paris 2024 Olympics, becoming the first Indian to achieve this milestone in the event. Moreover, he finished 11th in the final with a time of 8:14.18. His historic qualification came after setting a new Indian national record earlier that season. As a result, he made history in Indian athletics and further established his presence on the international stage.