Dr. C. Ajithkumar is a name synonymous with excellence, resilience, and transformative leadership in Indian athletics. With over two and a half decades of experience, he has played a defining role in shaping the careers of countless young athletes, elevating them from rural beginnings to national and international podiums.
Born in Thrickodithanam, Kottayam, Kerala, Dr. Ajithkumar’s journey began on the track. Between 1987 and 1992, he was a standout sprinter during his academic years at SB College, Changanacherry under Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam. A formidable competitor, he earned medals in both the 100m and 200m sprints at Junior National Championships and All India University meets — laying the foundation for a lifetime commitment to athletics.
Transitioning from athlete to coach, Dr. Ajithkumar devoted his life to identifying, nurturing, and mentoring talent across the country. His coaching career spans numerous premier institutions, including:
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Alva’s Education Foundation, Karnataka
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Mangalore University, where he was instrumental in establishing a record-setting athletics team
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Indira Gandhi Technological and Medical Sciences University, Arunachal Pradesh
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Shaheed Bhagat Singh State University, Punjab, where he currently holds the position of Director of Sports
His coaching philosophy is rooted in discipline, scientific training, and the belief that talent exists in every corner of India — it simply needs the right platform. He has coached 18 international athletes, guiding them to 22 medals at prestigious international events.
One of his most celebrated achievements came in 2023, when his trainee Bhavani Yadav Bhagavathi became the first Indian athlete to win a long jump medal at the World University Games in Chengdu, China. As Chief Coach of the Indian university team, Dr. Ajithkumar’s leadership was instrumental in this historic win.
His expertise has also been recognized at the national level:
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Indian Athletics Team Coach, Asian Athletics Championships, Bhubaneswar (2017)
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Chief Coach, World Police Games, Chengdu (2019)
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Kerala State Athletics Coach for National Games (2011, 2015)
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Chief Coach, Sashastra Seema Bal (2018–2020)
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Head Coach, National Youth Athletics Championship, Bhopal (2022)
Dr. Ajithkumar has been honored with numerous awards, including:
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Best Coach of Indian Universities Award (2023)
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Sports Science India Best Coach Award (2024)
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Amaruthavani Media Excellence Award (2023)
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SSB Best Coach Award (2019)
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Kerala State Athletics Association Excellence Recognition (2017)
His contributions extend beyond competitive sports. As a key trainer with HRDS India, he actively works in tribal and underprivileged communities, using sports as a tool for empowerment and education. His efforts in the grassroots sector are building a more inclusive and diverse future for Indian athletics.
In December 2023, Dr. Ajithkumar received a prestigious invitation to Rashtrapati Bhavan, where he was recognized as part of the official Indian delegation for the World University Games — a moment that symbolized both national honor and personal triumph.
Dr. C. Ajithkumar’s career reflects a profound dedication to nurturing the next generation, promoting equitable access to sports, and advancing India’s global standing in athletics. His legacy is not only etched in medals and titles but in the lives he has uplifted through the power of sport.
