Last few weeks we have been discussing about elderly heroes like Mr. Fauja Singh, Mr. Ajit Pal Singh.
While, Mr. Fauja Singh has become a celebrity across the world, there are quite a few senior citizen athletes who are yet to achieve stardom. Today we talk about another such elderly athlete runner, Mrs. Man Kaur, aged 97, of Chandigarh who took up running with encouragement from her son, 72-year-old Mr. Gurdev Singh.
She represented India in 100m & 200m racing events in the 90+ age group category and secured gold medals in both the events.
While not a marathoner unlike Mr. Fauja Singh or Mr. Ajit Singh, it is still an amazing achievement by an amazing woman. After winning the event she said “My son introduced me to athletics. I was hesitant at first, when the idea of stepping into competitive arena came up; but now, running has become a part of my life,” said Mrs. Kaur, who donned track pants for the first time in her life last month during the 32nd national masters meet. She won gold in both the 100m and 200m races in the 90+ age category.
Some have even argued that track and field athletics is one of the purest forms of sport, because it tests speed, strength, power and endurance. What‘s more, athletic competition is so obviously and easily quantifiable – after all, the tape measure and the photo finish camera don’t lie. However to run the 100M and 200M at the age of 95 requires more than merely great natural physical ability. Athletes at this age need a systematic and highly effective training programme carefully crafted to achieve physical ability to run a 200M race.
She inspired many by her act of confidence and belief in herself. It is seen that elder people , often get sceptical about their inner strength but this story proves that support and encouragement can make a huge difference. It will not be surprising if, institutions like retirement community homes offering senior living services may soon launch sports programmes for the elderly.
In a recent exchange with her grandson, she shared her inspiration for physical fitness coming from the example set by Gurus. She sent following note: “Let us start living in Begumpura Sehar and enjoy Guru’s grace. This is meant to encourage youngsters.”
Here is an article about the mother-son duo:
Man Kaur in action:
