From a ticket checker to a former footballer, the quartet comprises runners from diverse backgrounds
The Indian men's 4x400 meters relay team comprising Muhammed Anas Yahiya, Amoj Jacob, Muhammed Ajmal and Rajesh Ramesh made history by becoming the first Indian men’s team to reach the World Athletics Championships 2023 final. Along the way, they set a new Asian record for the event, clocking 2:59:05. The previous record of 2:59:51 seconds was set by Japan.
Here's all you need to know about the team members:
Muhammed Anas Yahiya: Born in 1994 in Nilamel, Kerala, he began his athletics journey in the long jump before switching to 400m running. He was also the third Indian to qualify for the 2016 Rio Olympics in the 400m section. Yahiya has held the national record in the 400m that he scripted in 2019 by clocking 45.24 seconds.
Amoj Jacob: Born in 1998 in Delhi, Jacob took to 400m and 800m events. He has won a couple of medals at the Asian Junior Championships that was held in 2016.
Muhammed Ajmal Variyathodi: Born in 1998 in Palakkad, Kerala, Variyathodi's career began by kicking the football but then later on, he switched his focus to track and field events. From 100m to 400m, Variyathodi went on to rake in the accolades that included a gold medal in the 400m Inter-State Nationals in Bhubaneshwar earlier this year. He clocked 45.51 seconds at the event.
Rajesh Ramesh: Born in 1999 in Tamil Nadu, Rajesh Ramesh is the youngest amongst the four. Ramesh managed all the adversities that came his way including injuries and Covid. Moreover, he beat teammate Muhammed Anas Yahiya in the 400m event at the Federation Cup 2023. Rajesh clocked 46.13 seconds. As per a report in The Mint, Rajesh was a ticket checker at Trichy railway station, Tamil Nadu, for almost a year in 2020.