India continued its impressive start at the inaugural Asian U23 Athletics Championships 2026 with another podium finish, as Prachi Devkar secured the bronze medal in the women’s 3000m steeplechase in Ordos, China.
Prachi produced a determined performance to finish third in 10:32.69, adding another medal to India’s tally at the continental championships. Competing against a strong field, the Indian athlete maintained a consistent pace throughout the race and held her position to earn a place on the podium.
The gold medal was claimed by China’s Yiting Yang, who crossed the finish line in 10:14.68 to secure the title. Her compatriot Yuxin Liu finished second in 10:25.51, completing a one-two finish for the host nation, while Prachi followed closely behind to claim the bronze.
The medal is another significant achievement for the Indian contingent at the debut edition of the Asian U23 Athletics Championships. It also reflects India’s growing strength in middle- and long-distance events at the age-group level, with young athletes continuing to make their presence felt on the continental stage.
Prachi’s composed performance under championship conditions ensured that India remained among the medal winners early in the competition. Successfully negotiating the barriers and water jumps while maintaining her rhythm, she produced a well-executed race to secure a deserved podium finish.
The Asian U23 Athletics Championships serve as an important platform for emerging athletes to gain valuable international experience before progressing to the senior level. By winning the bronze medal, Prachi has added a notable achievement to her career while contributing to India’s encouraging campaign in Ordos.
With another medal added to the tally, the Indian team will look to carry this momentum into the remaining events of the championships. Prachi Devkar’s bronze-medal performance in the women’s 3000m steeplechase stands as another memorable moment for India at the inaugural edition of the Asian U23 Athletics Championships.