How did Sandeep Kumar perform at Tokyo Olympics? A detailed look at the Indian athlete's performance at the previous Olympic Games

Sandeep Kumar, an Indian racewalker, participated in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics in the 20 km race walk. He showcased a brilliant performance, finishing as the best performing Indian in the event held at the Sapporo Odori Park.

The 38-year-old clocked 1:25:07 and finished 23rd. Notably, he also took part at the 2016 Rio Olympics in the men's 50 km race walk event and finished the race in 35th place.

In the 20 km race walk event at the Tokyo Olympics, 52 out of 57 athletes completed the race. Sandeep and Kaihua Wang of China set the pace early and they broke away from the main group within the first two kilometers of the race.

Unfortunately, the Indian received a 'loss of contact' violation call. However, he managed to keep pace with the Chinese racewalker. Additionally, they then established a 13-second lead by the fourth kilometer.

Sandeep, who is a subedar in the Indian Army, found himself slipping down the ranks due to the challenging conditions on the streets of Tokyo. Ultimately, he ended his campaign at the Tokyo Olympics, finishing 23rd.

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A deeper look at Sandeep Kumar's career as a racewalker for India

Sandeep Kumar, 38, began race walking after joining the Jat Regiment Center in the Army. He made his Olympic debut at the 2012 London Olympics in the 50 km race walk event. He later transitioned to the 20 km event for the 2016 Olympics and finished 35th at Rio.

Sandeep has previously achieved several accolades in his career. The 38-year-old represented India in the 50 km walk event at the 2015 World Championships in Athletics in Beijing, China.

He currently holds the national records for both the 50 km and 20 km race categories. Additionally, he clinched a bronze medal in the men's 10,000m racewalk event at the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games.