The oldest champions are from India!
Every four years, a new generation of athletes competes at the Olympics, and winning a medal is a formidable challenge. India has had 20 different individual Olympic medalists over the years. Among them are Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, who made history as the oldest Indian Olympic medalist with his silver in shooting, and Mary Kom, who achieved a historic milestone as the first female Indian boxer to win an Olympic medal with her bronze. Each of these athletes has made significant contributions to their sport, setting new benchmarks and inspiring future generations. Let’s explore the top five oldest Indian medalists at the Olympics.
Gagan Narang won a bronze medal in the men’s 10 m air rifle event at the 2012 London Olympics at the age of 29 years and three months, marking a significant milestone for Indian shooting. Narang’s achievement brought considerable recognition to the sport in India. Additionally, he was a member of the prestigious Padma Award Committee in 2023. Prior to his Olympic success, Narang had earned a gold medal at the 2006 ISSF World Cup in the 10 metre air rifle and a bronze at the Munich ISSF World Shooting Championships in the same event.
Sushil Kumar, one of India’s most decorated wrestlers, won a bronze medal in wrestling at the 2008 Beijing Olympics at the age of 25 years and two months. Four years later, at the 2012 London Olympics, he secured a silver medal in the same category at the age of 29 years and two months. Kumar’s remarkable achievements have played a crucial role in enhancing the profile of wrestling in India. He is the first Indian wrestler to medal at multiple Olympic Games, setting a significant precedent and inspiring future generations of wrestlers.
Mary Kom, known as “Magnificent Mary,” won a bronze medal in boxing at the 2012 London Olympics at the age of 29 years and nine months. Her victory was historic, making her the first female Indian boxer to win an Olympic medal and the oldest Indian female athlete to achieve this feat. Beyond the Olympics, Mary Kom has earned numerous accolades, including six World Championship gold medals, five Asian Championship gold medals, one Asian Games gold medal, and one Commonwealth Games gold medal. Her achievements have significantly raised the profile of boxing in India and inspired many aspiring athletes.
At the 2012 London Olympics, Yogeshwar Dutt won a bronze medal in wrestling at the age of 29 years and nine months, marking a proud moment for Indian wrestling. Dutt's achievement highlighted his exceptional skill and dedication to the sport. In addition to his Olympic success, he has garnered multiple gold medals at the Commonwealth and Asian Championships. Dutt continues to make significant contributions to wrestling as a mentor and coach, sharing his experience and expertise with the next generation of athletes. His legacy extends beyond his competitive achievements, positively impacting the future of Indian wrestling.
Born on January 29, 1970, Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore made history at the 2004 Athens Olympics by winning a silver medal in the men’s double trap shooting event at the age of 34 years and six months, making him the oldest Indian Olympic medalist by age. His achievement marked India’s first silver medal in shooting. Beyond his sporting success, Rathore has made notable contributions to politics, serving as India’s Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports.
These are all Olympic greats from our nation. Their example is a way to note that Olympic success is always possible!
