From May 27 to 31, the 26th Asian Athletics Championships are taking place in Gumi, South Korea — the premier continental competition in track and field. Tajikistan’s national team has sent its strongest athletes, who view this event as a key milestone in their 2025 season.
According to Ghayrat Nematov, the senior coach of the national team, leading athletes representing Tajikistan include Ildar Ahmadiyev, Favoris Muzrapov, Salim Saidaliyev, Muhammadrizo Mirzozoda, and Leonid Pronzhenko.
“All of them have international competition experience and possess the potential to fight for top positions,” Nematov told Asia-Plus.
He added, “The main goal of the team is to deliver their best performance and compete for medals. Beyond prestige, important ranking points are at stake, which affect qualification for the World Championships in Tokyo scheduled for September.”
The championship program in Gumi features 45 disciplines, including running, jumping, throwing, relays, and combined events. Top stars from across Asia, including Olympic medalists and world and Asian Games champions, are participating, making this one of the most competitive championships in recent years.
Review of this season’s performances
Earlier this season, Tajik athletes competed in several international tournaments. Their first major outing was in Kazakhstan at the Olga Rypakova Memorial, named after the Olympic champion.
Among the best results were two fourth-place finishes by Favoris Muzrapov and Leonid Pronzhenko, a sixth place by Zuhurshoh Najmuddin, and a fourth place in the mixed 4×200 m relay team.
Next, the athletes took part in the Gold Level “Astana Tour.” Despite the high competition level, they did not secure any podium finishes.
“It was a tough competition. While consistency is still lacking, the team gained valuable international experience,” the coach commented.
In April, the Tajik youth team participated in the Asian U18 Championships in Saudi Arabia, represented by Abubakr Huseynzoda (200 m hurdles) and Khursandmurod Ghaniyev (hammer throw).
Nematov acknowledged, “Our reserve in this age group is still weak. We need more focus on youth sports, facilities, and systematic training.”
Highlights in Tashkent
One of the most successful events so far was the international meet in Tashkent, which gathered athletes from 13 countries. Tajikistan’s 13-member team claimed the season’s first medals there:
- Ildar Ahmadiyev took gold in the 100 m with a time of 10.46 seconds.
- Leonid Pronzhenko won silver in the 110 m hurdles (14.71 seconds).
- Muhammadrizo Mirzozoda earned bronze in the 400 m hurdles.
“They did well but could have done even better — some lost by mere hundredths of a second. Still, these medals boosted their confidence ahead of the Asian Championships,” summarized coach Nematov.
