Major Rohit Kadian, an officer of the Indian Army and an internationally recognized athlete, is set to represent India at the prestigious World Masters Athletics Indoor Championship in Florida, USA, from March 23 to 30, 2025. He will compete in the 40-45 years age category, marking yet another milestone in his decorated athletic career.
What is Masters Athletics?
Masters Athletics is a specialized category in sports dedicated to athletes aged 35 years and older, providing them an opportunity to compete at national and international levels. Events under this category are governed by recognized organizations such as Asia Masters Athletics (AMA) and World Masters Athletics (WMA), both of which operate under the umbrella of World Athletics. The World Masters Athletics Championships began in 1975, while the World Masters Athletics Indoor Championship was introduced in 2004. These competitions serve as a global platform for experienced athletes to showcase their skills, stamina, and passion for sports.
Additionally, the World Masters Games, held every four years since 1985, is another major international event where athletes from around the world compete. This prestigious competition, recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), follows the same four-year cycle as the Olympic Games and provides a world-class sporting experience to seasoned athletes.
Major Rohit Kadian’s Incredible Achievements
Major Rohit Kadian has established himself as a dominant force in Masters Athletics, winning multiple medals and setting national records. His accomplishments include:
- Two National Records in the 800m and 1500m races, highlighting his dominance in middle-distance running.
- Three National Indoor Records in the 800m, 1500m, and 3000m races, proving his exceptional endurance and speed.
- Two silver and one bronze medal at the Asia Masters Athletics Championship held in the Philippines in November 2023, competing against top athletes from across the continent.
- Two gold, one silver, and two bronze medals at the South Asia Masters Athletics Championship held in Mangalore from January 10-12, 2025, further solidifying his place as one of the region’s top athletes.
- Holder of two records in the Limca Book of Records, achieving the fastest five-kilometre backward run in 29 minutes and 29 seconds and performing an incredible 30 toe touches to a horizontal rope in one minute.
Balancing Military Duty and Athletic Excellence One of the most remarkable aspects of Major Kadian’s journey is his ability to balance his demanding military responsibilities with his athletic ambitions. Serving as an officer in the Indian Army, his daily schedule is packed with rigorous military training, strategic operations, and administrative duties. Yet, despite these challenges, he continues to train after duty hours, pushing himself to achieve new milestones in athletics. His discipline, resilience, and relentless pursuit of excellence set an inspiring example for both athletes and soldiers alike.
Representing India on the Global Stage
With his exceptional track record, Major Kadian has also secured a place in the upcoming World Masters Games in Taiwan, scheduled to be held from May 17-30, 2025. This event, recognized by the IOC, is one of the most prestigious competitions in the world of Masters Athletics. It will feature thousands of elite athletes from various countries, all competing for glory in their respective disciplines.
An Inspiration to the Nation
Major Rohit Kadian’s journey is a testament to the power of dedication, perseverance, and hard work. His achievements prove that age is no barrier when it comes to competing at the highest level. As he prepares to represent India in yet another international championship, the nation eagerly awaits his performance, hoping for yet another victory.
His story serves as a beacon of motivation for aspiring athletes, showing them that success is possible through relentless effort and an unbreakable spirit. Major Kadian is not just a star athlete but also a source of national pride, carrying the Indian flag onto the global sporting stage with honor and determination. (PR)