Avinash Sable: Indian Steeplechase Champion's Inspiring Journey From a Brick Kiln to the Olympics

With India pinning hopes of big wins on star athletes, Avinash Sable, a former brick kiln worker, is expected to participate in the 3000 m steeplechase – an obstacle race in athletics. The first round of Men's 3000m Steeplechase is scheduled on 5 August at 10:34 PM.

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He was born in a small village in Beed district of Maharashtra. He grew up in poverty and saw his parents struggle as brick kiln labourers and farm workers.

Helping his parents in the brick kilns, he had to run to reach school. His speed caught the eye of his teachers, who got him into local marathons. When he was just nine years old, he was already racing like a star.

Avinash dreamt of giving his parents the life they deserved. So, he joined the Indian Army and discovered steeplechase.

Tackling obstacles and water jumps, he stunned everyone by smashing a 36-year-old national record. Avinash became the first Indian to win gold in the 3,000 m steeplechase at the Asian Games.

Recently, he shattered his own 3,000 m steeplechase national record for the 10th time, blowing away the audience at the Paris Diamond League. Now, he has got only one goal: clinching an Olympic medal for India.

Edited by Padmashree Pande