Thai Runner Atkinson Wins Historic 400m Gold at Asian Games

Jochow Robert Atkinson, a Thai-Australian runner, claimed a surprise gold medal in the men's 400 metres at the 2026 Asian Games at Nagoya City Mizuho Park Athletic Stadium in Japan, executing a dramatic late-race surge to overtake his rivals and finish in 44.90 seconds. The victory marks Thailand's first-ever 400m gold medal in Asian Games history since the competition began in 1951, seventy-five years ago in New Delhi.

After the race, Atkinson expressed his gratitude and joy, saying the past several months have been difficult but he has always visualized this moment. "I suffered a shin injury earlier, and received support from the Thai Olympic Committee medical team and the Thai Athletics Association. There were times when I felt stressed, so I went swimming and cycling, which I believe contributed to today's success," he said.

Describing the decisive moment of his victory, Atkinson explained that he initially focused on running his own race without targeting competitors, but in the second half, realizing he needed to give everything, he pushed hard and trusted in a higher power to reach the finish line.

"I want to thank everyone for all the comments, posts, likes, and support. I have felt it throughout," he said. "I'm proud to see myself, Biu (Buripool Boonsorn), and many others prove that Thai athletes can compete at the highest level and stand on the podium without needing to be from a superpower like the United States or China. Anyone can do it. In the future, I hope to inspire Thai runners to achieve what I, Biu, and others have accomplished."

Regarding his pre-race headband ritual, Atkinson described it as a style choice. "Earlier, I lacked confidence in myself, but once I put it on, I thought it looked good in photos. My favorite colors are purple and pink," he said.