New Delhi/IBNS: Ronaldo Singh Laitonjam, a promising Indian cyclist and participant of the prestigious Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), achieved a remarkable feat by setting a new national record in the men's spring qualification event at the Asian Track Cycling Championship held in Niali, Malaysia. With a phenomenal time of 9.877 seconds, Ronaldo's impressive performance garnered widespread acclaim.

Ronaldo secured a commendable 10th place finish, successfully qualifying for the round of 16, reported Sentinel Assam.

This exceptional achievement caught the attention of Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu, who took to Twitter to extend his best wishes.

Chief Minister Khandu expressed his heartfelt congratulations to the ace cyclist and highlighted the pride felt not only by Manipur but also the entire Northeast region.

This triumph builds upon Ronaldo Singh's previous accomplishments, as he had clinched a silver medal in the men's sprint competition during the Asian Championships held in New Delhi the previous year.

This historic achievement marked India's first-ever individual silver medal at the continental level. Ronaldo's remarkable performance extended further, securing an individual bronze in the 1 km time trial division, in addition to the prestigious silver medal.

Ronaldo Singh Laitonjam also played a pivotal role in the men's sprint team, contributing to their victory and securing a bronze medal in the preceding season.

India concluded the previous Asian championships with a total of nine medals in the senior division, including one silver and eight bronze medals, solidifying their presence as a force to be reckoned with.

The Asian Track Cycling Championship, currently underway and set to conclude on June 19, not only presents an opportunity for athletes to earn coveted medals but also serves as a crucial stepping stone towards qualifying for the Paris 2024 Olympics. 

Ronaldo Singh, a 21-year-old athlete from Manipur, further showcased his prowess at the National Velodrome in Nilai, where he improved his personal national record by an astounding 0.033 seconds.

The young cyclist has etched his name in history as the first Indian to secure a silver medal in a senior continental competition, making significant strides for the sport in his country.

Alongside his silver medal in the sprint event, Ronaldo had also claimed bronze medals in the team sprint and the 1 km time trial competitions during the same competition in New Delhi.

With his remarkable achievements and unwavering determination, Ronaldo Singh Laitonjam is paving the way for Indian cycling on the global stage, inspiring a new generation of athletes to pursue excellence and make their mark in the world of competitive cycling.