After Breaking the 800m National Record: Thiruben Thana Rajan's Journey to SEA Games Glory
In May this year, everything shifted for Thiruben Thana Rajan when he crossed the finish line at the Asian Athletics Championships in South Korea. He realized he had rewritten Singapore’s national 800m record, a record that had stood for 38 years.
This moment became a pivotal anchor for his SEA Games preparations and goals.
“It’s definitely a big confidence booster for me because the national record is something that I’ve been targeting for at least one or two years now. To finally hit it means I’m on the right track,” he reflected on the milestone that reset his ambitions and renewed his hunger.
“I definitely have bigger goals for the SEA Games. I’m on the right track in my preparations to win a medal at the SEA Games.”
Though he has worn the Singapore crest three times before, this fourth outing carries a different weight. This time, the 25-year-old is not just participating; he’s competing.
“I think this will be my first time going in with the intention to really do my best and try to get the gold medal,” he said.
“Of course, anything can happen in the 800m—it’s an unpredictable event. All I can do now is prepare myself and bring my timing down as much as possible. Hopefully, I’ll be breaking the national record more times before the SEA Games and give it my best shot there. Again, anything can happen on the day, but my aim is always to win gold.”
Rediscovering the Joy in the Middle Distance
Thiruben may have started his career as an 800m specialist, but the past few seasons saw him spend significant time in the 400m—an event that relies heavily on speed and power. Now, having returned to the 800m, he carries a unique blend of speed and endurance that he hopes will give him an edge against his regional competitors.
“I think the need to be really brave when I race is important,” he said, describing the mindset he hopes to bring to Thailand.
“Even though I started my career as an 800m runner, I’ve been focusing on the 400m for a couple of years. I think that has really helped me build on my speed. Hopefully, on race day, I can rely on my finishing kick. Even if it’s a fast race, I hope I’ve built myself up enough to handle any pace that is thrown at me. I think it’ll be very fun.”
Returning to the 800m has been a journey of rediscovery. After suffering a few injuries while competing in the 400m, going back to his middle-distance roots has been a welcome change. Racing two laps—surrounded by others, drafting, pushing, and responding—feels more natural to him.
“I think it’s been a good shift because when I started my career doing middle distance, that suited my body the best and what I enjoyed racing the most,” he said.
“I really enjoy doing my longer runs while still being able to do gym and speed workouts. It’s been a great change, and I enjoy training and racing a lot more now. I prefer running in a pack rather than just being in my own lane.”
A Rising Tide in Singapore Athletics
Thiruben’s personal growth coincides with a remarkable surge in Singapore Athletics. Across sprints, jumps, throws, and distance events, national records have fallen at an unprecedented pace. The team heading to the SEA Games this year is not only larger but also more competitive than ever.
“Singapore Athletics, our group of athletes, have improved so much over the last two to three years. We’re winning many medals and breaking numerous records,” he gushed.
“I’m just glad to be part of that story too. Representing Singapore always fills me with pride. I know the team is going to do really well at the SEA Games, and I hope I can contribute with medals and more national records.”
This year’s athletics squad is also one of the youngest in recent memory, which excites him—not only for the immediate SEA Games but also for the sport's future.
“I think this year especially, we have a very good representation across all events—not just track and sprints. Our middle-distance and long-distance teams are really coming up,” he said.
“I think it’s going to be really exciting, and we’ll see a wider spread of medals across different events. I believe athletics will be one of the best-performing sports. I hope so, at least.”
For the Next Generation
With younger athletes emerging, watching, and learning, Thiruben understands the toll the sport can take on the mind and body. To his younger, up-and-coming teammates, he advises:
“Don’t set limits for yourself. Track and field is such a mental sport—more than physical. You always need to have a bit of overconfidence in yourself to think that you can achieve something even before you’ve done it.”
“Aim high. Training hard is a given, but you also need to have a good mindset. Run with confidence; anything is possible.”
The Road Ahead
As Thiruben prepares for the SEA Games, he knows that the journey is just beginning. The support from his teammates and coaches plays a crucial role in his success. He emphasizes the importance of teamwork and camaraderie in athletics.
“Having a supportive team makes a world of difference. We push each other to be better every day. It’s not just about individual achievements; it’s about lifting each other up,” he said.
As he looks ahead, Thiruben remains focused on his goals. He is determined to break more records and bring home medals for Singapore.
“Every race is an opportunity to improve. I’ll give my all, and I believe that with hard work and dedication, success will follow,” he concluded.
The SEA Games is not just a competition for Thiruben; it’s a chance to showcase the growth of Singapore Athletics. With his sights set on gold, he is ready to make history once again.
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