India’s 800m national record holder Mohammed Afsal will compete at the Saudi Athletics Grand Prix on May 15-16, 2026, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – a World Athletics Continental Tour Bronze meet.

Last season, Afsal broke India’s 800m national record twice, eventually registering a lifetime best of 1:44.93s and becoming the first and only Indian athlete to go sub-1:45 in the event.

This season, he has already started strongly by breaking India’s 800m short track record with 1:47.86.

Indian distance runner Ankita Dhyani delivered a solid performance at the Drake Relays, clocking 9:34.39 in the women’s 3000m steeplechase at the World Athletics Continental Tour (Silver level) meet in Des Moines, Iowa.

Dhyani’s timing was around seven seconds shy of her personal best, which she had set just a week earlier at the Bryan Clay Invitational. Despite the slight dip, the performance reflects her growing consistency on the international circuit.

Competing against a strong field, Dhyani continues to build momentum this season, with back-to-back races showcasing her ability to maintain competitive timings.