Aurangabad’s Kavita begins her career as an athlete at 53

Most sportspersons’ careers come to a grinding halt well before they enter their forties.

For 53-year-old Kavita Anil Jadhav, though, life as a triathlete has just begun, with her debut in the Maharashtra State Olympic Games.

“I always used to cycle and run along with other youngsters back home, mainly to stay fit. When I lost my husband in October 2022, I took to swimming to keep myself occupied,” Kavita revealed. “And then, I discovered that I could take part in triathlon events. And here I am, representing Aurangabad,” she proudly added.

At 53, Kavita is the oldest athlete in triathlon here in the Maharashtra State Olympic Games.

A beautician by profession, Kavita has other plans too: she wants to become the first Iron Lady of Marathwada.

“Yes, for many, 50 is the end of the road in sports. But for me, 53 is the beginning,” Kavita said.

Her two sons take care of the travel business left behind by her husband.

“The State Games have been a great learning experience. I want to continue playing for my district as long as I can,” Kavita explained.

“She is the oldest athlete to complete the race here. She was flawless all the way through. It was her determination which helped her past the finish line which was the icing on the cake,” Balaji Kendre, the swimming official at the venue, said.