Abu Dhabi, UAE – At an age when many are contemplating a quiet retirement, Kurian Jacob is making waves on the international swimming circuit. The septuagenarian athlete has astounded the sporting world by clinching an impressive seven medals, including five golds, at the recent Open Masters Games in Abu Dhabi. This remarkable achievement is all the more extraordinary considering Jacob only began swimming competitively at the remarkable age of 70.
"I might have started swimming before I started walking," Jacob quipped, reflecting on his lifelong connection with water. Competing in the highly competitive 75-79 years old category, his performance underscores a dedication and tenacity that defies conventional expectations of age.
A Childhood Affinity for the Water
Jacob’s early life in Thidanadu, a picturesque region nestled between Kanjirapally and Erattupetta in Kerala, India, provided a natural inclination towards aquatic activities. "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 shared, believing these formative experiences might have sown the seeds for his future passion. This nostalgic recollection paints a vivid picture of a childhood immersed in nature, where the local river served as a playground and a silent mentor.
The Journey from Novice to National Champion
Jacob’s competitive swimming journey, however, did not begin with immediate triumph. His first foray into organized competition, the Kerala State and Inter-State Seniors Athletics championships in 2019, saw him return empty-handed. Yet, this initial setback proved to be a powerful catalyst. Just two years later, he achieved his first significant victory, clinching a gold medal at the Inter-State Seniors meet. The intervening period was a testament to his self-driven ambition and resourcefulness.
"I took to YouTube to hone my skills. I watched videos to learn more," Jacob explained. "Public pools were closed at the time. However, in 2021, when the pools re-opened, I started swimming again. That is how I got better at it." This period of self-education and adaptation during the pandemic highlights his unwavering commitment to improvement, even when faced with external limitations.
Rigorous Training Regimen and International Acclaim
Today, Jacob’s dedication remains unwavering. He trains diligently at the Yacht Club swimming pool in Kochi, dedicating almost two hours to his rigorous regimen at least six days a week. His training involves covering three kilometers in the 25-meter pool, a testament to his stamina and focus.
Over the past five years, Jacob has amassed an astonishing 119 medals at various national and international sporting events, with the recent Abu Dhabi Games adding significantly to this impressive tally. His international debut at the European Masters Games (EMG) in Finland in 2023 marked a significant milestone, where he secured five medals – three silver and two gold. This success ignited a fire, and there has been "no looking back for him since then."
The momentum continued into 2024 with his participation in the Pan American Masters Games held in Cleveland, USA, where he bagged two gold, one silver, and one bronze medal. Prior to this, he showcased his prowess at the World Masters Games in Taipei, an event held once every four years, by securing nine medals. The Open Masters Games, in contrast, are an annual fixture, underscoring the consistent level of competition Jacob engages in.
Conquering the Cold Waters of Abu Dhabi
The gold medal in the open waters swimming competition in Abu Dhabi stands out as a particularly poignant victory. Describing the challenging conditions, Jacob recounted, "This was February, though they said the temperature was 21 degrees Celsius, it felt more like 18. It was a windy winter day, and the water was cold. We had to swim 2.5 kilometres. 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. 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!" This narrative vividly illustrates his mental fortitude and physical resilience in overcoming adversity.
Jacob’s transition to the 75-79 years old category this year also signifies his continued progression and adaptability. "I was one of the youngest participants in that group," he noted, a statement that speaks volumes about his sustained competitive edge.
A Medley of Success in Abu Dhabi
At the Abu Dhabi Games, Jacob’s dominance was evident across various disciplines. He secured gold medals in the 800 meters, 400 meters, 200 meters freestyle, and the 200 meters breaststroke. His versatility was further demonstrated by a silver medal in the 100 meters freestyle and a bronze in the 50 meters freestyle. The event imposed a cap of seven events per individual, a limit Jacob expertly navigated to maximize his medal haul.
The Pursuit of Perfection and the Need for Coaching
While largely self-taught, Jacob understands the value of expert guidance. He recently engaged a swimming coach for a couple of weeks. "I wanted one to see if my strokes were right. Also, it is difficult to find coaches for seniors," he explained, highlighting a potential gap in specialized sports coaching for older athletes. This proactive approach to refining his technique underscores his commitment to continuous improvement, even at this advanced stage of his career.
A Champion’s Call for Senior Athlete Support
Beyond his personal achievements, Kurian Jacob is a vocal advocate for greater recognition and support for senior athletes in India. He makes a compelling case for government incentives and aid for seniors returning with medals 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," Jacob stated. He pointed to progressive states like Delhi and Punjab, which offer cash incentives to medal winners at national events, even for 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 identifies this lack of support as a "main challenge" for senior athletes.
Jacob further argues that elderly athletes are often overlooked in sports policy formulation. "It will keep seniors healthy, and the health of the nation will improve," he asserted, drawing a direct link between senior participation in sports and national well-being. His perspective emphasizes the broader societal benefits of investing in and encouraging active aging through sports.
A Life Beyond the Pool
Kurian Jacob’s life is a tapestry woven with diverse experiences and passions. He began his professional career as a banker with Federal Bank, subsequently moving to Standard Chartered and Gulf Bank, before retiring from the National Bank of Kuwait. He settled in Kochi in 2017. His wife, Sunu, plays an integral role in his success, acting as his "manager" and accompanying him to competitions, a testament to their strong partnership.
His interests extend beyond the aquatic realm, encompassing the art of kombucha brewing and slow cooking. He also dedicates time to mentoring a group practicing intermittent fasting, showcasing a holistic approach to health and well-being.
Looking Ahead: The Horizon of Kansai
Despite his remarkable achievements and accolades, Kurian Jacob shows no signs of slowing down. He has already registered for the World Masters Games scheduled to be held in Kansai, Japan, in 2027. This forward-looking ambition, coupled with his unwavering dedication and passion, suggests that his journey in competitive swimming is far from over. Kurian Jacob is not just a swimmer; he is an inspiration, a testament to the power of perseverance, and a compelling voice for the recognition and support of senior athletes worldwide. His story is a powerful reminder that age is merely a number when the spirit of competition and the pursuit of excellence are alive and well.
