Legends Return to Track — Chennai Hosts the 23rd Asia Masters Athletics Championships in Grand Style | Chennai | November 2025
The iconic Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai turned into a celebration of endurance, passion, and ageless athletic spirit as the 23rd Asia Masters Athletics Championships (AMAC 2025) unfolded from November 5 to 9, 2025.
More than 3,000 veteran athletes from over 30 Asian nations competed in the event, showcasing that age is no barrier when determination burns bright. The meet, hosted by the Masters Athletics Federation of India (MAFI) in association with Asian Masters Athletics (AMA) and supported by the Government of Tamil Nadu, marked a milestone for India’s sporting heritage.
🏟️ A Festival of Athletics in Chennai – 23rd Asia Masters Athletics Championships
For five days, Chennai’s main and outer stadiums buzzed with excitement. Competitors aged 35 to over 80 took to the tracks and fields, proving that competitive athletics is not just the domain of youth but a lifelong pursuit of excellence.
From the precision of javelin throws to the sheer speed of the 100-meter sprints, every event carried a story — of perseverance, comeback, and pride. The Tamil Nadu Sports Development Authority ensured world-class facilities, smooth logistics, and a festive environment that welcomed athletes, families, and spectators alike.
Event ambassador and Tamil film star Arya flagged off the championship, bringing a dash of glamour to the occasion. The opening ceremony was graced by noted film personality Shenbagamoorthy, whose presence underscored Tamil Nadu’s cultural and sporting unity. They were joined by dignitaries from the Masters Athletics Federation of India, senior sports officials, and veteran Olympians.
“The energy here is unbelievable,” Arya said during his address. “These athletes are living examples of discipline and passion. They prove that sport is not about age — it’s about attitude.”
🇮🇳 India Leads the Medal Charge – 23rd Asia Masters Athletics Championships
The Indian contingent dominated the championship with exceptional performances across multiple disciplines.
- Daljit Singh Rana, DIG of Punjab Police, captured gold in javelin throw, earning thunderous applause from the crowd.
- Pargat Singh Gill from Ferozepur set a new Asian record in hammer throw (40+ category), marking one of the standout moments of the meet.
- Jharkhand’s S.K. Tomar and B.N. Rao grabbed gold medals in hammer throw and long jump, respectively, while Ashok Kumar added silver in the 300 m hurdles.
- Pavitra Bhuiyan, the Digboi-based athlete, clinched gold in women’s shot put (55+ category), symbolising India’s depth in women’s masters athletics.
With a mix of former national-level stars and first-time international competitors, the Indian camp was easily the largest, accounting for over 1,200 athletes across various age groups. Many of them dedicated their performances to the late athletics coach S. Ravindran, who was instrumental in mentoring Tamil Nadu’s masters fraternity.
🌏 Asia’s Finest Compete with Spirit – 23rd Asia Masters Athletics Championships
Beyond India, the championship drew inspiring stories from across Asia — from Iran’s veteran sprinters to Japan’s field masters and Malaysia’s relay teams. For many, Chennai was a reunion of old rivals turned lifelong friends.
“We come here not just to win medals but to celebrate our love for athletics,” said Masato Tanaka, a 68-year-old discus thrower from Japan. “Every stride, every throw, is a message that fitness belongs to every generation.”
The atmosphere at the outdoor stadium was electric — flags waving, national anthems echoing, and volunteers cheering every participant. For Chennai residents, it was a rare chance to witness world-class athletics in their backyard.
✨ Stars, Glamour, and Spirit – 23rd Asia Masters Athletics Championships
Adding sheen to the athletic spectacle were celebrities and dignitaries who showed their support throughout the event. Actor Arya’s presence as brand ambassador created a media buzz, while Shenbagamoorthy, known for his contribution to Tamil cinema and sports philanthropy, personally felicitated several veteran athletes.
Prominent local leaders, sports administrators, and SDAT officials joined hands in honouring the champions, ensuring that the event blended entertainment, emotion, and respect for lifelong sport.
🏅 A Step Forward for Indian Athletics – 23rd Asia Masters Athletics Championships
Hosting the Asia Masters Athletics Championships in Chennai marks another feather in Tamil Nadu’s sports journey. Following recent international events like the Chennai Esports Global Championship, it highlights the state’s readiness to host diverse, large-scale international competitions.
For the Masters community, this was more than a championship — it was recognition. The medals might glitter, but what shone brighter was the collective spirit of athletes who refused to let time dictate their limits.
💪 Legacy Beyond the Finish Line – 23rd Asia Masters Athletics Championships
As the stadium lights dimmed on November 9, one thing was clear — Chennai had witnessed not just a sporting event, but a celebration of human resilience. The success of AMAC 2025 has opened doors for future global masters events in India and set a new benchmark for inclusivity in sports.
The track marks may fade, but the inspiration lingers. For every runner, thrower, and jumper who took part, Chennai will forever remain a symbol of what happens when experience meets endurance — and sport becomes timeless.
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