SANTA CRUZ, GOA: Host state Goa gave a spectacular account of itself on the opening day of the 3rd National Women Masters Athletics Championship 2026, capturing a staggering 20 gold medals at the Athletics Stadium in Cujira, Santa Cruz, on Saturday. The national meet drew close to 600 competitors from across the country, showcasing remarkable athletic longevity across various age brackets.
Star Performers Take Center Stage
Former volleyball standout Betty D’Silva spearheaded Goa’s gold rush in the 60+ age category. D’Silva put on a masterclass in versatility, clinching a golden hat-trick by winning the discus throw, triple jump, and high jump events.
The championship’s spotlight also shone brightly on Mapusa-based competitor Maria Imelda de Sousa. At 91 years old—and turning 92 this December—de Sousa emerged as the oldest active athlete in the competition, sprinting to glory in the 100m and dominating the shot put to secure a double gold finish. (Rajasthan’s 94-year-old Pani Devi had registered for the meet but ultimately did not travel to Goa).
Multi-Medal Glory for the Hosts
Goa saw a flurry of double-gold performances across several age divisions:
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Melida Pereira (75+): Secured top spots in both the 100m and 400m sprints.
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Ritinha Pereira (65+): Dominated the field in the high jump and triple jump.
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Devi Gaonkar (50+): Delivered a powerhouse performance to win both the discus throw and shot put.
In the highly competitive 80-85 years age group, which featured 11 seasoned athletes nationwide, Perpetua Jacques stood out as the lone Goan representative and successfully secured a gold medal in the 100m dash.
Grand Cultural and Ceremonial Opening
The prestigious tournament was officially declared open by the Hon. Speaker of the Goa Legislative Assembly, Shri. Ganesh Gaonkar. The inaugural ceremony was attended by Siolim MLA Delilah Lobo and Ajay Gaude, Director of the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs (DSYA). Following a vibrant march past, the participating athletes treated the audience to a unique fashion show centered around the theme ‘India Today and Tomorrow’.
