Every great athlete has a mentor who molds talent into triumph. In India, that guiding force is Dr. C. Ajithkumar — International Athletic Coach, Director of Sports, and Associate Professor — a man dedicated to a singular mission:
“To create Olympic medalists for our nation.”
Early Life and Foundation
Born in Amarapuram, Kottayam, Kerala, to late P. K. Chellappan Sir and Janamma Teacher, Ajithkumar’s journey in athletics began in his hometown. His first mentor, Merikutty Teacher, instilled discipline and a passion for sport, while P. V. Velsi Sir refined his skills and competitive mindset during university.
Supported by his village Amara and the National Arts and Sports Club, he earned the Best Athlete Award from the Government of Kerala in 1991, a recognition that would mark the start of his lifelong journey as a coach and mentor.
Mentors Who Shaped His Vision
Ajithkumar credits his transformation to guidance from two pivotal figures:
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Dr. Mohan Alva, Chairman of Alva’s Education Foundation, who provided him a platform to train athletes.
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Sri P. T. Ouseph Sir, mentor of legendary sprinter P. T. Usha, who enhanced his technical and tactical knowledge.
These influences inspired him to move beyond personal achievement and dedicate his life to nurturing champions.
Leadership Across Institutions
Dr. Ajithkumar is a leader across multiple platforms:
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Director of Sports, SBSU
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Associate Professor, Indira Gandhi Technological and Medical Sciences University, Arunachal Pradesh
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Athletic Coach, Alva’s Education Foundation, Moodbidri
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Chief Project Director, HRDS INDIA Sports Academy
Through these roles, he blends science, biomechanics, and psychology to create comprehensive training programs for athletes aiming for international success.
Historic Milestones
His career is marked by several groundbreaking achievements:
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In 2023, he became the first Indian coach to produce a World University Games medalist in long jump, when Bhavani Yadav Bhagavathi won bronze with a 6.42m leap in Chengdu, China.
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Recipient of the Best Coach Award by Kerala State Athletics Association (2017).
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Honored with the Best Coach Award by Alva’s Education Foundation (2023).
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Known for integrating scientific, biomechanical, and psychological training methods into Indian athletics.
Champions Who Define His Legacy
Dr. Ajithkumar’s athletes reflect his philosophy and vision:
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Bhavani Yadav Bhagavathi – World University Games bronze medalist (long jump)
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Nayana James – Asian gold medalist, Asia’s No. 1 in long jump (PB: 6.55m)
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Sneha – Asian silver medalist, 100m sprint (PB: 11.41s)
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Renga K – World Police Games record holder, 100m (11.42s)
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Jijin Vijayan – National 100m record holder (PB: 10.50s)
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Stalin Jose – Decathlete, 9th at World University Games
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Ali Ansari – Asian Youth silver medalist, now a coach
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Rajesh Postel – Asian Junior silver medalist
Each athlete embodies his principles: discipline, scientific preparation, and mental resilience.
Philosophy That Shapes Champions
Dr. Ajithkumar believes that champions are built, not born. His coaching principles include:
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Identifying and nurturing grassroots talent
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Using biomechanics, strength, and speed training to maximize performance
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Building mental toughness for international competitions
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Focusing on long-term athlete development
He emphasizes that talent alone does not create champions; discipline, science, and perseverance do.
Life Beyond Athletics
Away from the track, Ajithkumar draws strength from his family. His wife, Reena K. K., is a Section Officer in the Kerala Government Secretariat, and daughters Aleena Ajith and Ananya Ajith inspire him every day.
From his home in Thiruvananthapuram, he balances professional excellence with family values, proving that true success grows from a foundation of support and love.
Shaping India’s Olympic Future
From his small village in Kerala to coaching athletes on the world stage, Dr. C. Ajithkumar’s journey is a story of vision, determination, and unwavering belief.
His message to every aspiring athlete is clear:
“India has the talent. With the right guidance, we will conquer the world of athletics.”
✨ Dr. Ajithkumar is more than a coach — he is India’s visionary, crafting the champions who will one day carry the nation’s flag to Olympic glory.
