At an age when many are contemplating retirement, 62-year-old P V Johny of Ernakulam in Kerala is lacing up his spikes and hitting the track with the enthusiasm of a teenager. His passion for athletics hasn’t waned over the years; if anything, it has intensified. Johny, who follows a red-meat-less diet, says he only eats fish and chicken as a non-vegetarian dish to stay fit at this age.
Johny, who runs a Public Distribution shop at Kalady, is breaking all stereotypes and rewriting the narrative by becoming an international athlete at the age of 62. He has not only defied the conventional notion of age but continues to clinch titles in the fiercely competitive 200m and 400m sprints. He won silver and bronze medals in the 100m and 400m sprints at the 20th Asia Masters Athletics Championship 2017 held in China, representing India. He also competed in the 2022 Kerala State Masters Athletics Championship held at Kozhikode in the 100m and 200m categories, winning first and second places respectively.
Every morning, like clockwork, Johny dedicates two hours to rigorous training. His workout routine includes a mix of speed drills, strength training, and agility exercises. Witnessing him on the track, one would be hard-pressed to believe he is in his sixth decade of life. The determination in his eyes and the efficiency of his strides speak volumes about the unwavering commitment he brings to athletics, which he has loved since his youth.
Currently, he is preparing for the State Masters Sports Meet 2023, scheduled for December at Nileshwaram, Kasaragod. “I fell in love with athletics at the age of 15 and started practicing. I was the captain of the college athletics team and have won several certificates in University meets,” Johny told “Open Digest.”
He said his holistic approach to health and wellness, following a strict diet and exercise regimen, has helped him stay away from any medication so far. Johny follows a red meat-less diet, opting for a balanced intake of proteins, whole grains, and an abundance of fruits and vegetables. His nutrition choices are not just about athletic performance; they reflect a lifestyle aimed at ensuring his overall well-being.
His victories serve as inspiration to those who may believe that certain pursuits have an expiry date. Johny stands as a living embodiment of perseverance, passion, and the limitless potential of the human spirit. As he continues to dominate the tracks and add more titles to his name, Johny proves that age is indeed just a number, and the pursuit of one’s passion knows no bounds.
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