hen Roda K. looks back on her athletic journey, she sees a lifetime of sports woven through the decades. Originating from a rowing lineage in Chennai with her brothers becoming champions at the Madras Boat Club and winning numerous trophies across cities, Roda excelled in running and ball games herself through school and college, captaining teams to victory. Her competitive spirit found new outlets during a glittering 20-year career with Air India, organizing cricket and tournaments in table tennis, carrom, badminton, and more. "During my professional career, I couldn't dedicate much time to sports due to work commitments," Roda remarks. "However, when I joined Air India, they encouraged sports, and I spent 20 years organizing cricket tournaments, sports days, and inter-department competitions in different sports."

Even after retirement at 58, Roda's will to move remained. Prompted by a sports-loving friend, she took up athletics training at 65. "I met a woman in the park who introduced me to Masters competitions. I started with swimming and won three gold medals at a national-level competition in Vishakhapatnam." Roda recalls. Heartened, another friend suggested throws. "We found a place to practice in the parking lot of Nehru Stadium. I started training with a coach and won multiple medals in swimming, badminton, and athletics. Despite the lack of proper facilities, we gather there, have coffee, and enjoy ourselves while throwing. It's a social activity that we make the most of. I plan to continue participating in Masters athletics for as long as possible. The age groups in Masters competitions go up to 90 years old, so I still have time to compete. I am currently 70, and my goal is to keep going as long as possible.”

As Roda continues competing seasonally in throwing events, her training remains casual - "Whenever a few of us plan to get together, we give each other a call," she shares. However, as major events near, the focus intensifies. "When district, state, or national competitions are upcoming, we become more serious and dedicated in our practice," Roda notes. Frequent sessions are important at these times to maintain technical proficiency in her throwing disciplines.

Coordination is key to strong performance. From her experienced perspective, this balanced lifestyle supports continued growth and enjoyment of sports well into later years. Roda elaborates, "The specific movements require syncing arms and body. If lacking consistency, issues can arise."

When asked what keeps her motivated during her athletic events, she shared, "I just tell myself I'm going to win. No preparation and all that. I am going out there, and I am going to win a gold. Also, I learn by observing how others perform and identify areas for improvement, I believe that things happen as they are meant to," Roda notes. With coaching access inconsistent, peer support proves pivotal. "We share advice, suggest adjustments, and lift one another up." she affirms confidently.  

For her, the journey itself remains most meaningful, and while successes have been many, setbacks have surfaced too, along her journey. While representing India internationally in Malaysia, where she didn’t win, she shares, "The women from other countries, notably those in law enforcement, were incredibly dedicated and skilled. They had limited practice time but were still exceptional." Roda recounts admiringly. Rather than disheartenment, Roda embraced the growth opportunities each experience offered. "I admired their abilities and congratulated them. May the best performer take victory," she affirms graciously. Comparisons hold no interest; each athlete's uniqueness inspires. Defeats stir reflection too, on areas for honing, as Roda strategizes.

Amidst her competitive pursuits, Roda talks about balancing her joy of sport with loved ones. "While I aspire to win nationals and even represent globally, the timing and circumstances must align. As life evolves, it's about fitting everything in - including sports, travel, and family time," she reflects.

Roda's journey reflects life's inherent unpredictability and opportunities that arise when we step outside our comfort zones. For those considering exploring competitive sports or group activities later in life, she shares, "Making that initial effort, with determination and commitment to training, is crucial," Attending her first national swimming meet as a novice opened Roda's eyes to passions she never knew she had. "Meeting thousands from different places, making friends - it was profoundly eye-opening," she recalls. This experience reinforced her pursuing activities, bringing her joy, regardless of others' views.

Through trying new things, our true capabilities are often revealed. Whether actualized on the field or not, Roda gained self-knowledge and community.  For Roda, age has never dictated ability - only drive and dedication to sport do that. She aims to continue to inspire others that a lifetime of play remains within reach.  She exemplifies how an enthusiastic, growth-oriented mindset can fuel active aging and that embracing new challenges and community through sport can enrich quality of life at any stage.

‍Are you, or someone you know, a passionate older athlete who loves sports? We would love for  you to be a part of the GetSetUp Athlete Program coming to you soon! To learn more about the program and apply, click: https://bit.ly/GetSetUpIndiaAthleteProgram