The 3rd National Women Masters Athletics Championship 2026 is set to commence on Saturday at the Athletics Stadium in Cujira, Panaji, with an inspiring lineup of participants, including two athletes aged over 90 years. This remarkable event showcases that age is no barrier to athletic excellence.
Elderly Athletes Defy Age
Goa's Maria Imelda D'Sousa, a 92-year-old from Mapusa, will compete in the 100 meters, shot put, and javelin throw. Meanwhile, Rajasthan's Pani Devi, aged 94, will participate in the 100 meters, shot put, and discus throw. Both athletes prove that age is merely a number when it comes to pursuing sports.
Savita Tawadkar, chairperson of the organising committee, expressed admiration for the participants, stating, "Age is truly just a number, and our participants from across the country are living proof. People normally associate sports with youth, but we have several others who have balanced families, careers, and continued to train with discipline. What these athletes are doing is nothing short of extraordinary."
Participation and Categories
Approximately 580 Masters athletes have registered for the championship, competing in 13 different age categories ranging from 30 to above 90 years. This diverse participation highlights the growing popularity of masters athletics in India.
Goa's Strong Contingent
Among the Goa athletes, several are strong gold medal prospects. Notable names include Devi Gaonkar, Betty D'Silva, Perpetua Fernandes, Vrunda Verenkar, Juliet Abraham, and Fatima, who have all proven themselves at the national level. Additionally, athletes such as Alzira, Avita, Clarissa, Vanessa, Angela, Rosalia, Jayshree, Imelda, Ritinha, and Divya are counted among the top Masters athletes.
State-wise Participation
Tamil Nadu will arrive with the largest contingent of 84 participants, while Goa and Maharashtra are close behind with 75 participants each. Other states with significant numbers include Karnataka (45), Kerala (37), West Bengal (35), and Gujarat (34).
The championship promises to be a celebration of athletic prowess across generations, inspiring many to take up sports regardless of age.
