Vikrant Panchal is having a breakthrough season. The Indian quarter-miler recently dipped under the 46-second barrier for the first time, clocking 45.88s despite battling illness. In this conversation with Athletics India, Panchal opens up about his journey, setbacks, mindset, and what lies ahead.
Q: Your first sub-46 run — what does it mean to you?
Vikrant Panchal:
“It feels great. I started in 2017 with a time of 49.59s, so this has been a long journey. Last year, I ran 46.17 and felt I was close. This season didn’t start well either — I made mistakes in Jaipur and then fell sick. But I kept working. To finally run 45.88 means a lot.”
Q: You were unwell just before the race. How tough was it to compete?
Vikrant Panchal:
“It was very tough. I had fever, food poisoning, and was even hospitalised two days before. On race day morning, my temperature was 102°F. My parents told me to skip it, but I didn’t want to give up. That mindset comes from my idol, Mike Tyson — never back down.”
Q: Looking back, do you feel you missed opportunities earlier?
Vikrant Panchal:
“Yes, especially last year. I knew I was close to sub-46. Even at the Open Nationals, I felt I could have done it if I wasn’t unwell. That stayed with me.”
Q: Why did you choose the 400m?
Vikrant Panchal:
“It’s a very demanding event. You have to push through pain and stay in control. In the last 100m, it’s all about fighting. That challenge draws me to it.”
Q: What are your targets next?
Vikrant Panchal:
“The Federation Cup is next, and I want to improve further. I’m also aiming for the Asian Games — both in the relay and individually.”
Q: Tell us about your mindset during races.
Vikrant Panchal:
“I focus on running my own race. Before this run, I was watching Michael Johnson talk about the ‘4 Ps’ — push, pace, position, pray. I followed that, and it worked.”
Q: You enjoy running the relay anchor leg. Why?
Vikrant Panchal:
“I like pressure. Running last gives me responsibility, and I enjoy that. I also adjust my strategy depending on the race situation.”
Q: How important has your family been in this journey?
Vikrant Panchal:
“Everything I am is because of my father. He left his job to train me. We’ve had financial struggles, but my parents stood by me. I always say — respect your parents. I wouldn’t be here without them.”
Q: Final word on this season?
Vikrant Panchal:
“I just want to keep improving and never give up. No matter the situation, I’ll back myself and keep pushing.”
The race itself unfolded in phases. Gurindervir Singh was quickest out of the blocks, powering through the first 40 metres and setting the early pace. But the field began to close in, and Kujur responded with a well-timed surge through the latter half of the race.
Right alongside him was S. Tamilarasu, who stayed within touching distance, breathing down Kujur’s shoulder all the way to the finish. Both athletes were clocked at 10.28s, underlining just how close the contest was, with Kujur edging ahead for the win.
Gurindervir, after his fast start, settled for third in 10.40s.
