Yashas Palaksha has steadily established himself among India’s leading 400m hurdlers over the past few seasons. The Karnataka athlete heads to the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow for his maiden appearance after producing the best performances of his career in 2026. Representing the Indian Army and training under the Reliance Foundation Youth Sports programme, Yashas has climbed to become India’s second-fastest man ever in the 400m hurdles and one of the country’s most consistent performers in the event. Early days Born on December 8, 2001, Yashas Palaksha hails from Karnataka, where he began his athletics journey before progressing through the domestic circuit. Specialising in the 400m hurdles, he has also competed in the flat 400m and relay events, developing into a versatile quarter-miler. Rising through the ranks Yashas established himself on the national circuit with a series of strong domestic performances. He won gold at the National Federation Cup in Ranchi in 2023 before adding another national title at the Indian Championships in Bhubaneswar later that year. His consistent performances earned him a place in …