Guwahati, April 1: In a story of resilience and rapid transformation, Shillong’s Bethlyne Grace Makri has clinched a bronze medal in race walking at the Khelo India Tribal Games 2026, just months after switching to the discipline.
Until late 2025, Bethlyne was competing as a middle and long-distance runner. But in January this year, coaches at the SAI Sports Training Centre in Shillong identified her potential in race walking and encouraged her to make the shift, despite her having little knowledge of the event.
The transition proved to be physically and mentally demanding.
Adapting to the technical requirements of race walking brought intense lower-body strain, sleepless nights, and moments of self-doubt. Bethlyne recalls questioning whether the decision to switch disciplines was the right one.
However, consistent support from her coaches and family helped her stay focused.
At the Khelo India Tribal Games in Jagdalpur, that perseverance translated into success. Bethlyne clocked 1:05:18 to secure bronze in the women’s race walk event, finishing behind Jharkhand’s Neha Xalxo and Odisha’s Alish Ekka.
The medal marks a significant milestone, not just personally but also for Meghalaya, where race walking has had little representation at the national level.
A second-year BA student at Shillong College, Bethlyne said the achievement has boosted her confidence and strengthened her commitment to the sport.
She also expressed hope that her journey will encourage more young athletes from the state to explore race walking professionally.
Also Read: Meghalaya Police awarded President’s Police Colour for exemplary service
Also Watch
Find latest news from every corner of Northeast India at hubnetwork.in, your online source for breaking news, video coverage.
Also, Follow us on
Twitter-twitter.com/nemediahub
Youtube channel- www.youtube.com/@NortheastMediaHub2020
Instagram- www.instagram.com/ne_media_hub
Download our app from playstore – Northeast Media Hub
