A local athlete is putting Peterborough on the track and field map. Kenner Collegiate student Isaac Chandra won the gold medal in the 100-meter dash at the OFSAA Championships, held at Western University last week, marking a significant milestone in his young athletic career. This triumph is especially noteworthy given Chandra’s fourth-place finish in the same event last year, highlighting his relentless dedication and hard work over the past year.
The atmosphere at the meet was electric, with spectators witnessing one of the closest finishes in recent memory. Chandra’s winning time of 10.344 seconds edged out his closest competitor, Will Batley, by just two-thousandths of a second, who finished at 10.346 seconds. Despite the narrow margin, Chandra says he felt a surge of confidence as he crossed the finish line, a feeling later confirmed by the official results.
Adding to the excitement, Chandra’s time also set a new meet record, surpassing the previous mark of 10.41 seconds set in 1994 by Carlton Chambers. However, due to wind conditions exceeding the allowable limit for record recognition, his time will not be officially recorded as a new meet record. This technicality has been a recurring theme for Chandra throughout the season, as many of his sub-10.4 second performances have similarly been wind-assisted.
Chandra’s journey into competitive track began relatively late, starting his training in grade 12. His rapid progression in the sport is a testament to his natural talent and the rigorous training with his club, the Flying Angels at York University. This club has provided him with numerous opportunities to compete internationally, including a memorable relay event in Jamaica.
Looking ahead, the 18-year-old has set his sights on even more ambitious goals. He is preparing for the US Nationals in Philadelphia this weekend, aiming to achieve personal bests and earn the title of All-American. Beyond that, he aspires to compete at the World Juniors in Lima, Peru, in August, for which he has already met the qualifying time in the 200 meters and is close in the 100 meters.
The upcoming Canadian Nationals in Montreal will not only be a critical step towards cementing his place at the World Juniors, but the event also offers the exciting prospect of competing alongside Canada’s elite sprinters, such as Andre De Grasse and Aaron Brown, providing both inspiration and invaluable experience.
Chandra’s athletic achievements are undoubtedly influenced by his upbringing in a fitness-focused family. His parents, Mark and Jyoti, both doctors and avid fitness enthusiasts, have instilled in him the importance of health and discipline. This supportive environment has been a cornerstone of his success, from ensuring a nutritious diet to fostering a love for physical activity.
As Chandra continues to push his limits, his remarkable journey from a latecomer to a top-tier athlete serves as an inspiration to many. His determination, coupled with a supportive family and a strong training regimen, paves the way for a promising future in track and field
(Written by: Scott Arnold)
