The Asian Games have always been a platform where the finest athletes from across the continent come to showcase their prowess. This year, the spotlight was firmly on the Indian men's 4x100m and women's 4x200m freestyle relay teams as they not only qualified for the finals but did so by setting new national records.
Men's 4x100m Freestyle Relay: Breaking Their Own Record
The dynamic trio of Srihari Nataraj, Tanish George Mathew, and Vishal Grewal demonstrated exceptional coordination and speed, clocking an impressive 3:21.22s. This timing saw them finish fifth in the heats, ensuring their spot in the final. Their performance surpassed the previous 'Best Indian Time' of 3:23.72s, which was set by a team that included Nataraj himself, alongside Sajan Prakash, Virdhwal Khade, and Anil Kumar Shylaja back in 2019.
Women's 4x200m Freestyle Relay: A Quartet of Champions
Following the men's stellar performance, the women's team, comprising Dhinidhi Desinghu, Shivangi Sarma, Vritti Agarwal, and Hashika Ramachandra, clocked an 8:39.64s in the 4x200m freestyle relay. This timing not only secured their place in the final but also rewrote the 'Best Indian Time', previously held by Hashika, Dhinidhi, Vihitha Nayana, and Shirin with a time of 8:40.89s.
Understanding Swimming Records in India
In the realm of Indian swimming, a timing achieved at the National Aquatic Championships is recognised as a national meet record. However, records set in other competitions are termed the 'Best Indian Time'. This distinction ensures that achievements in various meets are acknowledged appropriately.
The Journey of Former Medallists: Khade and Sarma
While the relay teams were making waves, former medallist Virdhwal Khade and promising swimmer Shivangi Sarma faced challenges in their respective events. Khade, who previously clinched a bronze in the 50m butterfly event in 2010, clocked 24.67s this year, finishing 19th. Sarma, competing in the women's 50m freestyle event, touched the pad at 26.92s, securing the 18th spot.
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