As the race unfolded, Bahrain’s Winfred Yavi bobbed up and down in the lead, while Ruth Jebet surprisingly began to fade. Meanwhile, Nozomi Tanaka of Japan stuck tenaciously to the front, threatening an upset on the final lap before Yavi’s world-class, loping strides and devastating 200-meter sprint broke the resistance.
Amidst this elite fray was Seema, the diminutive Indian distance runner taking a giant step onto the international stage.
“Because it was my first Asian Games, and everyone wants to win gold for their country, I also fought to win gold. But I won the bronze medal. I am happy.”
For Seema, the race wasn’t just physical; it was a course of unexpected trials. Unknown to most, a foreign object had lodged itself into her shoe early on.
“Did you get hurt in your shoes? Yes, I got a sticker on my foot. But I didn’t see it. I didn’t pay much attention.”
That resilience defined her race. When the initial slow tempo didn’t suit her and the pack began playing tactical games, Seema adapted on the fly. When Yavi and the leaders finally threw down the hammer in the final laps, Seema dug deep. Could she have grabbed silver instead of Tanaka? Yes, she could have. That is the eternal crossroads for a 10k runner: when to surge and when to bide your time. Securing bronze in 32:50.05 was a steep learning curve, but one she handled with maturity.
This podium finish was no accident. It is the product of meticulous planning, gruelling overseas camps, and an unbreakable mindset. Training in the United States for the last three years, with the support of the Athletics Federation of India (AFI), SAI, and TOPS, has transformed her trajectory.
Recent months saw the squad complete a high-intensity, two-and-a-half-month block in the U.S., returning home just a week prior to the Games. “It is very beneficial for us because there are tough conditions there, and we train with Olympic champions. Since the Olympic Games will be held in Los Angeles in 2028, it prepares our mindset to compete.”
Wrapped proudly in the tricolour, Seema looked back at a journey that includes a silver medal at the 2025 World University Games. But the story is far from over.
With her next event, the 5000 meters, approaching on September 28th, Seema is eager to apply the tactical lessons learned on the 10k track.
“My next event is the 5000 meters. I will try my best to change the colour of my medal.”
Guided by mentors who always remind her, “Seema, you are the best. You are a fighter,” she has proven she can take a punch, adapt to chaos, and deliver when it matters most.