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Sports
Sikkim's Bir Bahadur Rai Makes History as First Indian on UTMB 25km Podium
✍️ Northeast Today
🗓 13 Sep 2026, 03:38 AM
👁 7
Bir Bahadur Rai of Sikkim became the first Indian to finish on the podium in the 25‑kilometre Ultra‑Trail du Mont‑Blanc race, marking a milestone for Indian ultra‑running.
Bir Bahadur Rai, a long‑distance runner from Sikkim, secured a podium finish in the 25‑kilometre category of the Ultra‑Trail du Mont‑Blanc (UTMB) race, becoming the first Indian to achieve this feat. The accomplishment underscores the growing competitiveness of Indian athletes in international ultra‑marathon events.
Rai's performance was celebrated by the Indian athletics community, which has been closely monitoring the nation's progress in endurance sports. His podium placement not only highlights his personal dedication but also signals a broader rise in the standards of Indian trail running on the global stage.
Officials from the UTMB organisers confirmed Rai's standing among the top three finishers, a result that will likely inspire more Indian runners to target elite performances in future editions of the race.
Rai's performance was celebrated by the Indian athletics community, which has been closely monitoring the nation's progress in endurance sports. His podium placement not only highlights his personal dedication but also signals a broader rise in the standards of Indian trail running on the global stage.
Officials from the UTMB organisers confirmed Rai's standing among the top three finishers, a result that will likely inspire more Indian runners to target elite performances in future editions of the race.