Tamil elders win big at the 2023 Asia Masters Athletics Championships

Defying age, and winning the hearts of millions across the global Tamil diaspora and homelands, are these inspiring elders who recently competed in the 22nd Asia Masters Athletics Championships held in the Philippines.

Representing Sri Lanka was 71-year-old Mullaitivu resident, Mrs Akhila Thiru Nayagi (Akila Thirunayaki). Competing barefoot, the Tamil grand mother won two gold medals in the 1,500 and 5,000 meter races, one bronze medal in the 800 meter race, and secured fourth place in the 400 metre race.

Representing India, was Tamilnadu’s K Subramaniam. The 86-year-old Chennai resident won four gold medals. Better known as Subbu in the athletics fraternity, he landed the top podium spot in long jump, triple jump, high jump and javelin throw in the 85-plus category.

Congratulations to our wonderful elders, proving that age is nothing but a number, and never to give up!