Aug 8, 2025: For 69-year-old Balwinder Singh, age is truly just a number. People around him continue to be inspired by his love of sports. “Main aakhri saah takk sports nai chadni” (I will never give up sports till my last breath), he proudly declares every time, exemplifying the dedication that has defined his life.
A seasoned athlete with a remarkable record of medals in both national and international competitions, Singh is now preparing for the 23rd Asia Masters Athletics Championship, which will be held in Chennai later this year. “The final list of selected participants is yet to be announced,” he shared, with a determined glint in his eyes.
Singh demonstrated once more that age is not a barrier to excellence when he won a gold medal in the long jump at an International Open Tournament in Malaysia for athletes aged 65 to 70. “I’ve been into sports since my school days,” Singh recalled with fondness when reflecting on his lifelong commitment to sports, highlighting the origins of his enduring passion. He had a varied career throughout his journey. From 1973 to 1980, Singh served in the Indian Army as a Sapper, where he built both physical and mental discipline. After his service, he spent many years working abroad. “From 1995 to 2012, I worked in Dubai as a Welder Supervisor. I even got the chance to participate in a sports event there once,” he noted. But one event wasn’t enough — Singh felt the need to compete more, to stay engaged and to continue challenging himself.
He completely devoted himself to sports upon his return to India, and he has never looked back. Whether it’s local, national, or international competitions, Singh is determined not only to participate but also to win. His most recent achievements include medals in the Khedan Watan Punjab Dian Games, where he dominated both the 100-metre race and the long jump categories, proving his continued dominance in track and field.
Behind every successful athlete stands a strong support system and for Singh, his wife is that pillar. She takes care of my daily routine and makes sure I eat well. I've made it this far because of her constant support and my parents' blessings," he said with gratitude. Singh is originally from the Goraya village of Moron. He now lives in Phagwara. Singh attributes his sporting journey to the Guru Arjan Dev Kabaddi Academy, Bilga, despite the fact that his children, sons and daughters, are settled abroad. “The club sponsors me whenever I have to travel for competitions. Their support means everything to me,” he added. Singh maintains a rigorous daily training schedule at the age of 69 because he believes that a healthy lifestyle is essential to both longevity and sporting success. His story serves as a powerful reminder that passion, discipline and a solid support system can keep one’s dreams alive at any age.
Singh stated, "I want to set an example for the younger generation." "They ought to be aware that embracing sports can ensure long-term happiness and health,"