Breaking Barriers on Both Sides of the Track: Atul Anand’s Dual Pursuit of Excellence.

Breaking Barriers on Both Sides of the Track: Atul Anand’s Dual Pursuit of Excellence

Source :
Bihar Athletics, Athletics Federation Of India, LinkedIn
In a country where young athletes often find themselves forced to choose between dreams and degrees, Atul Anand is proving that it’s possible to chase both—without compromise.
A national-level sprinter and a System Solutions Architect at World Wide Technology, Atul has carved out a life that bridges high performance in sport with deep success in the tech world. His journey reflects an extraordinary commitment to balance—between mind and body, ambition and responsibility.
Hailing from Bihar, Atul excelled academically, graduating in engineering with distinction. He began his professional journey at Larsen & Toubro, where he spent five formative years contributing to critical projects while building a strong foundation in technology and systems. Today, he works at World Wide Technology, a leading global IT solutions firm, where he continues to grow in a high-impact role. It’s a position that not only demands sharp thinking but also comes with the kind of compensation that reflects his caliber—proof that athletes can thrive financially without leaving their passion behind.
Even while managing a demanding career, Atul has remained deeply committed to athletics. He has qualified for and competed in six national championships, and currently holds the title of the fastest male athlete from his state. Since 2021, he’s been a regular on the podium at State Championships and clinched gold and silver medals across sprinting events. His 2023 season brought top recognition, including the Overall Champion and Best Athlete of the State awards. That same year, he broke the sub-11 second barrier in the 100m—a milestone that many sprinters chase for years.
In just 10 months at WWT, Atul has already been recognised with two prestigious awards: the Top Producer Award and the Passion and Ethics Award—a rare feat that reflects his dedication and work ethic beyond the track.
“In India, studies are often seen as the only route to stability. I never disagreed with that—I loved engineering, and I wanted to build a career too,” Atul says. “But I also knew I didn’t want to give up on my dreams. I’ve been balancing both since I was a child. There were breaks, yes, where I had to focus on academics—but I always came back.”
He credits his parents for allowing him to pursue engineering while silently continuing to support his passion for sport. “My job is demanding and fulfilling. But I use it as fuel—not as an excuse. The discipline from sport helps me perform better at work, and vice versa.”
Beyond his own journey, Atul is passionate about giving back. He mentors aspiring young athletes—especially those struggling to navigate between education and sport—offering them both direction and belief. Quietly entrepreneurial, he’s also building two ventures behind the scenes, which he plans to unveil when the time is right.
Today, Atul’s story is one of aspiration for many young Indians caught between expectations and passion. “One day, when a young athlete is told to choose studies over sport, I want them—and their parents—to say, ‘If Atul could do both, maybe I can too.’ That thought gives me purpose. That’s why I want to win—not just medals, but mindsets.”
We wish Atul Anand continued success for the season ahead—and look forward to watching him break not just sprinting records, but the barriers that keep talent boxed in.
Follow his journey on insta @justanotherwizard_