Pune: Harishchandra Rambhau Thorat, a 71-year-old runner from Khadkiphata, Ambegaon, has proved that age is no barrier to success. In the past 11 years, Thorat has bagged 128 medals, including four gold medals recently at the Asian Athletics Championship Masters Games held in Mangalore, Karnataka.

A Journey of Grit and Determination

Until the age of 50, Thorat was an avid kabaddi and wrestling enthusiast. Running was not part of his athletic pursuits. However, while managing a gym in Pimpri-Chinchwad, he began running as a daily activity.

At 58, he participated in a marathon held in Baramati to mark Sharad Pawar’s birthday, securing the fifth position. Shortly after, he claimed first place in a Pimpri-Chinchwad marathon. These events marked the beginning of his remarkable journey into competitive running.

Medals and Achievements

Thorat has since participated in 116 marathons and won medals in international, national, and state-level competitions. His accolades include:

• 23 Gold Medals

• 4 Silver Medals

• 2 Bronze Medals

Thorat’s tally includes three international medals, 11 national-level, and 12 state-level honors.

In January 2025, Thorat competed in the Asian Masters Athletics Championship Games in Mangalore, Karnataka. The event saw participants from India, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Japan. Thorat won gold in the 10,000m run, 5,000m run, 1,500m run, and 3,000m race walk.

Even at 71, Thorat’s daily routine includes rigorous training, exercise, and a balanced diet. He believes consistent effort and a disciplined lifestyle have helped him turn his dreams into reality.