Melinder Kaur, a former Malaysian national track athlete, has been making waves in the world of sports with her incredible feats of endurance and determination. The 36-year-old has not only broken multiple national records but has also set her sights on conquering Guinness World Records.
In December 2023, Melinder announced her ambitious goal of breaking the “fastest mile wearing handcuffs” record for women, which stood at 6 minutes and 37 seconds, set by Ireland’s Sandra Hickson in 2018. With unwavering determination and months of rigorous training, Melinder achieved her goal on June 8, 2024, at the Arena Sukan Kuala Lumpur in Setapak.
Clocking in at an impressive 5 minutes and 57 seconds, Melinder shattered the previous record and etched her name in the history books. But that wasn’t all – she also set a new world record for the fastest woman to run 1.6km barefoot, with a time of 6 minutes and 4 seconds, a feat that had never been attempted before.
Melinder’s journey to becoming a world record holder is a testament to her passion for running and her commitment to pushing her limits. As a former national steeplechase runner, she broke the Malaysian 3,000m steeplechase record four times before retiring from competitive athletics.
However, retirement didn’t stop Melinder from pursuing her love for running. She has since set multiple records, including running non-stop on a treadmill for 25 hours and running backwards on a treadmill for 12 hours. Her record-breaking attempts not only showcase her incredible physical and mental strength but also serve a greater purpose – raising funds for underprivileged children through the Gurpuri Foundation, an NGO she supports.
Melinder’s inspiring journey is far from over. She has already set her sights on another Guinness World Record in 2025 – the fastest 100-meter crawl for women, a record that has never been attempted before. With her unwavering determination and the support of her family, friends, and the community, there’s no doubt that Melinder will continue to break barriers and inspire others to chase their dreams.
In a world where we often find ourselves caught up in the daily grind, Melinder Kaur’s story serves as a reminder that with passion, hard work, and a strong sense of purpose, we can achieve the extraordinary. Her journey is a celebration of the human spirit and a testament to the power of perseverance in the face of adversity.