Chennai: In a matter of pride for neighbourhood, one of its elderly residents secured a medal and certificate in the marathon conducted by Chennai World Run in Besant Nagar recently. Of the 200-odd participants of the event, 68-year-old Tamilselvan was the oldest and covered 5 km in 35 minutes. News Today spoke to him about his recent success and here are the excerpts from his interview:
Q: When did you start taking part in races and marathons?
A: I did not take part in running competitions in school or college. This is the first time I am running races and I have been participating only for the past year. I used to run in district-level competitions in the 100 and 200 metre category. When I won these, I was sent to the State-level contest in Thanjavur.
Q: How did you train? What special fitness regime did you follow?
A: I undertook special coaching every day in the mornings. There is a silambam master who trains me and makes me do exercises. I run around the ground and train myself to get control over my breath.
Q: How did you first get the idea of participating in marathons?
A: Last year, I came across a poster that stated that a competition was being held for people above the age of 39. I approached them with a few other friends and enrolled for it. In the 100 and 200 metre races, I secured the first place and took home two gold medals. This encouraged me to take running seriously.
Q: What, according to you, is the reason behind your victory?
A: The trick is to start slowly and boost up your speed towards the end. I usually jog through the marathon and use my full strength and speed only during the last 100 metres or so. This helps to get a sense of balance and control breathlessness. It also conserves a lot of energy towards the end.
Q: What advice would you offer to youngsters aspiring to be athletes?
A: Consistent workouts and running will enhance ones health and fitness. He can be reached at 94980 02351.
(The article is written by Sharmada V & Suha Nisviya S A)