Kuldeep Kumar Sets New National Record in Pole Vault at Indoor Open Combined Events

Bhubaneswar, May 3: Kuldeep Kumar made headlines on Saturday by setting a new national record in the men’s pole vault during the inaugural Indian Indoor Open Combined Events competition held at an indoor stadium.

The 21-year-old, representing Madhya Pradesh, cleared a height of 5.41 meters on his first attempt, breaking the previous record of 5.40 meters set by Dev Kumar Meena last year. Kuldeep also surpassed the national indoor record of 5.30 meters held by Reagan G.K. However, he was unable to clear the height of 5.46 meters in three attempts.

Dev Kumar Meena also showcased impressive form. Earlier this year, in March, he equaled his national record of 5.40 meters in Taiwan. He was considered the top contender for victory before the event, but on Saturday, he had to settle for a bronze medal. The gold medal competition was between three athletes: Dev Kumar Meena, Kuldeep Kumar, and Reagan G.K.

As the competition progressed, Dev Kumar Meena struggled and ended up with a bronze medal after clearing 5.20 meters. Reagan G.K. attempted to clear 5.35 meters but failed in all three attempts, ultimately securing a silver medal with a height of 5.25 meters.

Kuldeep Kumar’s second attempt at 5.35 meters boosted his confidence significantly. He then raised the bar to 5.41 meters, creating a positive atmosphere ahead of the major outdoor domestic competition scheduled for the end of May in Ranchi, Jharkhand.

The upcoming outdoor season promises to be even more thrilling. The top three pole vaulters present in Bhubaneswar aim to secure spots on the national team for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and the Asian Games in Japan.

An exciting competition was also witnessed in the heptathlon. Thaufiq N. from NCOE Trivandrum led the first day with 2,943 points, closely followed by Jasbir Nayak from Odisha with 2,927 points. The first day’s events in the heptathlon included the 60-meter dash, long jump, shot put, and high jump. The second day will feature events such as the 60-meter hurdles, pole vault, and 1000-meter race.