Abu Dhabi, UAE – In a testament to the enduring power of dedication and the pursuit of excellence, Kurian Jacob, a septuagenarian from India, has emerged as a formidable force in the world of masters swimming. His recent triumph at the Open Masters Games in Abu Dhabi, where he clinched an impressive seven medals, including five golds, has captivated the sporting community and underscored the remarkable fact that his serious foray into competitive swimming began at the age of 70. This remarkable achievement, far from being a fluke, is the culmination of a journey fueled by an innate connection to water, a relentless drive for self-improvement, and an unwavering spirit of perseverance.
From Riverbanks to the Podium: An Unlikely Swimming Prodigy
Kurian Jacob’s relationship with water appears to be as old as his memory. He humorously suggests, "I might have started swimming before I started walking," a sentiment rooted in his childhood in Thidanadu, a picturesque locale nestled between Kanjirapally and Erattupetta in Kerala, India. As one of ten siblings, his early years were likely filled with boisterous adventures in the Meenachil River’s tributaries. "I was one of 10 children, and I might have been in water a lot, playing in the tributary of the Meenachil River with my older siblings," he reminisces, believing these formative experiences may have sown the seeds of his lifelong affinity for aquatic pursuits.
However, life’s currents led him down a different path for many years. A career in banking saw him navigate the financial world, working with esteemed institutions like Federal Bank, Standard Chartered, and Gulf Bank, before a final tenure at the National Bank of Kuwait. It wasn’t until his retirement in 2017 and his subsequent settlement in Kochi that the call of the swimming pool became too strong to ignore.
A Delayed but Determined Ascent: The YouTube Coach and Pool Reopenings
The initial steps into competitive swimming were met with challenges. Kurian’s first foray into the Kerala State and Inter-State Seniors Athletics championships in 2019 yielded no medals. This outcome, rather than deterring him, served as a powerful catalyst. The intervening two years proved to be a pivotal period, marked by an innovative approach to skill enhancement and a fortunate confluence of circumstances.
With public pools closed due to prevailing circumstances, Kurian turned to the vast digital ocean of YouTube. "I took to YouTube to hone my skills. I watched videos to learn more," he explains. This self-directed learning, combined with a keen analytical mind, allowed him to dissect techniques and refine his strokes. The reopening of public pools in 2021 marked a significant turning point. "However, in 2021, when the pools re-opened I started swimming again. That is how I got better at it," he states. This period of dedicated practice, fueled by newfound knowledge and access to facilities, laid the foundation for his subsequent successes.
A Medal-Laden Journey: National and International Acclaim
The fruits of his labor became increasingly apparent in the years that followed. Kurian’s dedication to training is unwavering. He currently trains at the Yacht Club swimming pool in Kochi, dedicating almost two hours daily, six days a week. His rigorous routine involves swimming approximately three kilometers in the 25-meter pool, a testament to his stamina and commitment.
Over the past five years, Kurian Jacob has amassed an astonishing 119 medals at various national and international sports meets. The Abu Dhabi Open Masters Games represents the latest chapter in this remarkable medal collection. His international debut in 2023 at the European Masters Games (EMG) in Finland proved to be a resounding success, where he secured five medals – three silver and two gold. This initial international exposure ignited a fervent desire for further global competition.
His competitive spirit continued to shine in 2024 at the Pan American Masters Games in Cleveland, USA, where he added two gold medals, a silver, and a bronze to his growing tally. The prestigious World Masters Games, held once every four years, saw him claim nine medals in Taipei last year, further solidifying his status as a world-class senior athlete. The Open Masters Games, an annual event, provides him with regular opportunities to test his mettle against international competitors.
Conquering the Open Waters: A Test of Grit and Resilience
The gold medal secured in the open waters swimming competition at the Abu Dhabi Games is particularly emblematic of Kurian’s indomitable spirit. The conditions were far from ideal: a windy winter day with temperatures feeling closer to 18 degrees Celsius, despite the official reading of 21. The 2.5-kilometer swim presented a formidable challenge. "The minute I went into the water, the cold hit me, my leg cramped, and I drank quite a bit of the salt water too," he recounts. At that moment, the thought of quitting and seeking rescue crossed his mind. "I thought I would ask for a rescue because I did not think I could finish it. But I did, and won the gold too!" His perseverance in the face of adversity is a powerful narrative of overcoming physical discomfort and mental doubt.
This year also saw him transition into the 75-79 years old age category, where he found himself among the younger participants. "I was one of the youngest participants in that group," he notes with a touch of pride. His dominance in Abu Dhabi extended beyond the open waters, with gold medals in the 800m, 400m, 200m freestyle, and 200m breaststroke events. He also earned a silver in the 100m freestyle and a bronze in the 50m freestyle, demonstrating his versatility across different strokes and distances. Due to event caps, he participated in seven events at the Abu Dhabi games.
The Pursuit of Perfection: Coaching and Self-Reflection
While largely self-taught, Kurian recognizes the value of expert guidance. This year, he engaged a swimming coach for a few weeks. "I wanted one to see if my strokes were right. Also, it is difficult to find coaches for seniors," he explains. This proactive approach to refining his technique, even at this advanced stage of his career, highlights his unwavering commitment to continuous improvement.
A Plea for Recognition and Support: Bridging the Gap for Senior Athletes
Despite his extraordinary achievements, Kurian Jacob voices a significant concern regarding the support and recognition afforded to senior athletes. He argues for greater government intervention, advocating for incentives and aid for seniors who bring laurels from international events. "Seniors bear all the costs if they want to participate in international events, unlike younger sportspeople who would get some sponsorships or support from the government," he points out. He commends states like Delhi and Punjab for their initiatives in providing cash incentives to medal winners at national events, including senior participants.
"I am not asking for expenses to be borne, but some appreciation or acknowledgement goes a long way, at least for the medal winners," he states, identifying this as a primary "challenge." He further laments the absence of elderly athletes in sports policy formulation. "It will keep seniors healthy, and the health of the nation will improve," he argues, underscoring the broader societal benefits of promoting active aging.
Beyond the Pool: A Life of Diverse Interests and Supportive Partnerships
Kurian Jacob’s life is a rich tapestry woven with diverse interests and strong personal connections. His wife, Sunu, plays an integral role in his achievements, acting as his "manager" and accompanying him to competitions. Her unwavering support is a cornerstone of his success. Beyond swimming, Kurian finds enjoyment in brewing kombucha and slow cooking. He also dedicates time to mentoring a group practicing intermittent fasting, further showcasing his commitment to a healthy and holistic lifestyle.
Looking Ahead: The Unfinished Race
For Kurian Jacob, the Abu Dhabi triumph is not an endpoint, but another significant marker on an ongoing journey. With his gaze firmly fixed on future international endeavors, he has already registered for the World Masters Games scheduled to be held in Kansai, Japan, in 2027. This forward-looking perspective, coupled with his proven dedication and remarkable talent, suggests that Kurian Jacob’s story is far from over. His journey serves as an inspiring testament to the fact that age is merely a number when passion, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence are at play. The swimming pools of the world will undoubtedly continue to witness the remarkable prowess of this septuagenarian champion for years to come.
