By In a world where athletic excellence is often seen as the domain of the young, there exists a remarkable woman who defies all conventions, showing us that age is no barrier to achievement. Imagine a sprightly septuagenarian, her grey hair flowing in the wind, crossing the finish line with a triumphant smile, as a crowd erupts into applause. This is the story of Vasanthi K., a woman whose incredible journey through the world of athletics proves that it’s never too late to chase your dreams – and that the heart’s desire for sport knows no age.
But before Vasanthi became an international master’s champion, before the medals, before the recognition — there was a young girl, full of passion, looking at the world of sports with longing. Vasanthi, from Varanad near Cherthala, in Alappuzha, Kerala, grew up in an era when societal norms dictated the roles women should play. Sports, particularly for girls, was not something that families saw as appropriate, and the idea of a girl participating in athletics was almost unheard of in many parts of India.
For young Vasanthi, the yearning for sports was palpable. “I was always fascinated by the idea of running, jumping, and competing. But during my childhood, my family did not allow me to train or participate in any events. Most families back then didn’t see the importance of sports for girls,” she recalls with a wistful smile. In those days, sports were considered a luxury that only boys could afford. Despite these societal restrictions, Vasanthi managed to sneak into a few local competitions during her school years — albeit without informing her parents.
However, life has a way of shaping us, even when we think we are running against the odds. Vasanthi’s path towards sports greatness was forged not in the early years of her life, but rather in her later years, in the unlikeliest of places — a distillery unit.
In 1982, Vasanthi joined McDowell’s distillery at Varanad, an event that marked the turning point in her life. The company held sports meets, and Vasanthi, at long last, found an outlet for her love of athletics. “That was where it all began. I was encouraged to participate in the sports meets at the company, and I did. Initially, it was just something I enjoyed for myself, but soon, it turned into something more,” she explains. From these humble beginnings, Vasanthi’s athletic career took flight. What started as a workplace competition soon evolved into participation in State and National-level masters athletic championships.
Her success in the sports arena was not just about participating; it was about winning. When Vasanthi retired from her job in 2003, she plunged into the world of competitive athletics with a vigour that would be the envy of athletes half her age. Over the years, she competed in various masters athletics events, travelling internationally and claiming medals along the way.
One of her most notable achievements came in 2016 when she won silver medals in both the 5 km race walk and the 2,000 m steeplechase at an international masters event in Singapore. The following year, she added to her collection with bronze medals in the same events at an international meet in China. However, Vasanthi’s crowning achievement came in 2023, at the International Masters Athletics Championship in Dubai. Here, at the age of 74, she claimed a gold medal in the 3 km walk, alongside bronze medals in the 200 m and 400 m sprints. The entire stadium watched in awe as the silver-haired athlete continued to show the world that age was no obstacle to success.
But even as she reflects on her many triumphs, Vasanthi remains grounded and humble. “I have been participating in masters championships for more than three decades. I walk at least 3-4 km every morning. It keeps me fit, and it keeps me going. I’m looking forward to the next challenge,” she says. For Vasanthi, it’s not just about the medals — it’s about the joy of the sport and the sense of achievement that comes with each step, each stride, and each challenge overcome.
In June 2024, Vasanthi’s exceptional achievements were recognised when she was selected for the prestigious Vayosevana Award by the Social Justice Department of Kerala, an award instituted to honour excellence in sports for individuals over the age of 60. “The recognition is truly the icing on the cake,” she shares, her voice filled with emotion. At 75, Vasanthi is not just a winner on the track, but a source of inspiration for everyone who believes that life’s best moments are behind them.
Praveen G. Panicker, the local ward member, describes Vasanthi as a “role model for the entire region, especially the youngsters.” Her story, more than anything, serves as a reminder to never let go of one’s passion, regardless of the hurdles life throws in your way.
For the youngsters of Varanad and beyond, Vasanthi K. is not just a champion athlete. She is living proof that dreams, no matter how delayed, can still be realised. Age is but a number, and in Vasanthi’s case, it is nothing but fuel for an athletic journey that continues to inspire and push boundaries. As she looks ahead to future competitions, Vasanthi’s message is clear: “It’s never too late to start. Keep moving forward, no matter your age, and your dreams will find their way.”
In a society where age often limits expectations, Vasanthi K. is rewriting the rules — one race at a time.
