New Delhi | June 30, 2025
In a nation where sporting legends are celebrated for generations, there are those rare mentors who shape the very foundations of those legends. One such towering figure in Indian athletics is Dr. C. Ajithkumar, a seasoned coach and visionary who has transformed raw talent into international champions for over two decades—without receiving a single national award. Yet.
Born in 1972 in Palakkulam, Changanassery Taluk of Kottayam District, Kerala, Dr. Ajithkumar’s journey began as the seventh child in a household of eight, guided by the values of his parents—Chellappan Sir and Janamma Teacher, both dedicated educators. What started as a sprint on a humble school track has become a race toward rewriting India’s athletic legacy.
From Sprinter to Strategist
A former Kerala state sprinter himself, Ajithkumar clocked 10.76 sec in 100m and 21.87 sec in 200m, earning the State Award for Best Sportsmanship in 1991. A member of the MG University and Kerala State Athletics teams from 1988 to 1992, he later served in the Indian Navy Headquarters, Mumbai, where he secured a silver medal at his first Services Meet in Hyderabad.
But Dr. Ajithkumar’s true calling wasn’t just to run—it was to raise runners.
A Coaching Career That Defines Greatness
Dr. Ajithkumar has trained over 25 international athletes who have collectively brought home 24 international medals. Among his finest protégés is Sneha S S, who struck Gold at the Taiwan Open and earned Silver at the 2025 Asian Championships under his watch. Her best timing of 11.41 sec in 100m marks her among India’s fastest women.
Other notable students include:
- Nayana James – Former Asian No. 1 in long jump (2017–2018)
- Jijin Vijayan – World Youth Championship finalist (France, Lille 2011)
- Ranga – 4th place at 2019 Doha Asian Games (11.42 sec)
- Bhavani Yadav Bhagabathi – Bronze in Long Jump at 2023 World University Games, China (first Indian medal in 121 years)
- 12 women long jumpers, all crossing the prestigious 6-meter mark
He has served as a coach with premier institutions like:
- SSB (Indian Police Department), Delhi
- MG University, Kerala University, Calicut University
- Alva’s Education Foundation, Karnataka
- Mission Gold Scheme, Kerala Cricket Association
- HRDS India Sports Academy
- Indira Gandhi Technological & Medical Sciences University, Arunachal Pradesh
- Currently: Sports Director at Shaheed Bhagat Singh University, Punjab and Chief Project Director, Narendra Damodar Das Modi Institute of Sports & Science Research Centre, Gujarat
A Legacy Without a National Award—Yet
Despite an unmatched contribution to Indian athletics, Dr. Ajithkumar has not received a single national award to date. His resume speaks louder than any trophy cabinet, and many in the sports fraternity are now voicing support for his name to be considered for the prestigious Dronacharya Award.
A Mentor Remembered by Legends
Dr. Ajithkumar credits stalwarts like Dronacharya awardee Ouseph Sir, AFI Joint Secretary P.I. Babu, Arjuna Awardee Padmini Thomas, and Coach Subhash George for shaping his own approach to elite training. He now imparts that wisdom forward—empowering India’s next generation of sprinters, jumpers, and game-changers.
Running into the Future
Operating from J11, BK Dutt Colony, Near Ministry of Environment, Jor Bagh, New Delhi, Dr. Ajithkumar continues to guide his athletes toward global platforms. His official website, Run With Ajith, is a growing hub of training, mentorship, and success stories.
“I’ve never run for awards. I run for my athletes. But if my journey inspires the nation to recognize the unseen coaches behind every medal, then I’ve already won,” says Dr. Ajithkumar with trademark humility.
Contact:
Dr. C. Ajithkumar
Chief Project Director
Narendra Damodar Das Modi Institute of Sports and Science Research Centre
J11, BK Dutt Colony, Near Ministry of Environment, Jor Bagh, New Delhi – 110003
+91 85900 67043
https://runwithajith.ralfiz.com
✉️ ajithk65379@gmail.com