The air in Sofia crackled with electricity as Vasil Antonov didn’t just run — he erupted. Clocking in at 47.34 seconds, the sprinter from Vidin obliterated the Bulgarian under-18 national record in the 400 meters. This wasn’t merely a victory; it was a statement. Antonov claimed the national title and, more importantly, smashed the qualifying standard for the World U20 Championships in Eugene, Oregon. The future of Bulgarian middle-distance sprinting has arrived, and it is fast.

A Double Header of Glory

The excitement didn’t stop with Antonov. Stilyan Panev, representing Burgas 98, delivered a masterclass of his own. With a time of 48.58 seconds, Panev secured his ticket to the European U18 Championships in Rieti, Italy, later this year. Two athletes, two different continents, one undeniable message: Bulgarian youth athletics is on the rise. The competition at the National Championships for U18 athletes in Sofia proved to be a breeding ground for talent, with records falling and standards being met with ease.

Champions of the First Day

The first day of the National Championships delivered a landslide of results across multiple disciplines. In the 100 meters, Dilyan Chernopolski (Ever) took the men’s gold with a 10.61 second dash, while Miraela Mincheva (Dobrudzha) dominated the women’s race with 12.27 seconds. On the tracks, Angel Darandashew (Athletic 90, Lukovit) conquered the 1500 meters in 4:08.00, and Jaklina Zhelewa (SKLA Mikhail Zhelev) finished the women’s race in 4:43.09. Hurdles saw Nikola Petkov (Burgas 98) clear the 110m in 13.49 seconds, and Emili Karyakova (Super Sport-Varna) won the 100m hurdles in 14.09. The steeplechase belonged to Boyan Vuchkov (Athletic 90-Lukovit) at 6:22.09 and Nikol Mincheva (Beroe) at 7:22.98. Relay teams from Radukanovi-Vidin and Ivet Lalova Sprint Academy also secured top spots, while field events saw triumphs in triple jump, high jump, discus, and hammer throw.

COMMENT: antonov 47.34 is insane for u18 rn 😳 honestly didn't expect a record break in sofia this early in the season. hope he keeps this form for oregon...