Toor, Parul win gold, Shaili silver

THERE is something about Tajinder Pal Singh Toor. The shotputter always has great throws, including national records, during domestic competitions. But somehow he manages to not throw the distance in competitions abroad. The Asian Athletics Championships in Bangkok is another example. However, he managed to win gold. India’s gold on Friday was Parul Chaudhury in the 3000m SC. India now have five gold, including the three they won on Thursday.

- INDRANEEL DAS

Once again the heartening part was to see another young star doing well. Long-jumper Shaili Singh won silver at her first senior Asian meet.

Toor defended his title Asian title on Friday but his mark was way off his personal best of 21.77m achieved less than a month ago. He managed to throw the iron ball to 20.23m in his second attempt after which he did not take part in the competition.

“I injured myself just after we reached Bangkok,” said Toor, explaining the reason for not being able to throw well and complete his series. “I have strained my muscle in the groin region and I did not want to aggravate. That’s why I did not take part.” This is not the first time Toor has had groin injury issues. He missed the World Championships and the Commonwealth Games because of the same injury.