Thu Dec 25 05:40:00 UTC 2025: Jyothi Yarraji Storms to Victory, Defends 100m Hurdles Title Amidst Gumi Downpour
Gumi, Republic of Korea – Indian sprinter Jyothi Yarraji clinched gold in the women’s 100m hurdles at the 2025 Asian Athletics Championships, defending her title with a championship record of 12.96 seconds. The race took place in an eerily empty stadium in Gumi on May 29th, as relentless rain forced spectators to seek shelter.
Yarraji’s victory was hard-fought, as she initially trailed behind Japan’s Yumi Tanaka and China’s Yanni Wu, both of whom had strong starts. However, the 27-year-old athlete from Visakhapatnam unleashed a powerful finish, overtaking her rivals to secure the top spot. Tanaka finished second with 13.04 seconds, followed by Wu in third place with 13.12 seconds.
“When I reached the finish line, I felt nobody was near me,” Yarraji said, expressing elation after the race. This marks her first sub-13-second performance of the season, a significant milestone after recovering from a minor hamstring injury earlier this year.
Coach James Hillier praised Yarraji’s performance, stating, “She’s a class act. She executed the race plan perfectly.” He noted her improved strength and conditioning, positioning her among the world’s best over the final hurdles.
This victory builds on Yarraji’s 2023 triumph in Bangkok and fuels her qualification push for the 2026 World Championships in Tokyo, where she aims to achieve a sub-12.73-second time.
Yarraji’s journey from humble beginnings in Pombaram village to becoming Asia’s hurdling queen is a testament to her unwavering determination. Athletics Federation of India President Adille Sumariwalla lauded her as “a beacon of perseverance,” highlighting her significant contribution to India’s medal tally.
Her success story resonates beyond the track, inspiring young girls across India to pursue their athletic dreams. Jyothi Yarraji’s victory stands as a symbol of courage and the power of sport to unite communities in shared aspiration.
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