Published on March 29, 2026
M.D. Valsamma, a celebrated figure in Indian athletics, expressed her deep concern over Kerala’s declining tradition of producing female athletes. The former national champion and gold medalist in the 400m hurdles at the 1982 Asian Games reminisced about her illustrious career while highlighting the fading prominence of women’s sports in her home state.
Valsamma, who made history in New Delhi and later advancing India to the women’s 4x400m relay final at the Los Angeles Olympics in 1984, believes that the state once known for its remarkable female athletes is now facing a crisis. “It is sad to see Kerala failing to uphold its legacy,” she remarked. “The rich tradition we had of nurturing talented female athletes should not be allowed to fade away.”
During her time, Valsamma and her contemporaries were revered not only for their athletic prowess but also for breaking barriers in a male-dominated sports environment. However, she notes that modern-day challenges such as inadequate infrastructure and lack of encouragement weigh heavily on aspiring female athletes. “We had the support of coaches and facilities to help us excel. Today, it seems that young female athletes are not receiving the same level of guidance,” she lamented.
Valsamma urged local governments and sports associations to invest more in women’s sports, emphasizing the need for better training facilities and coaching programs. “If we do not provide support, we will lose out on potential champions,” she added.
Looking back, Valsamma still cherishes the memories of her achievements, which include not just medals, but also the joy of representing her country on an international stage. “Those were magical moments,” she recalled with a smile. “I hope that future generations can experience the same thrill and pride.”
As she continues to mentor young athletes, Valsamma remains committed to revitalizing interest in female sports in Kerala. She encourages parents to support their daughters in pursuing athletics, emphasizing the benefits of sport for personal development and empowerment. “It’s essential that we inspire and guide our young girls to take up sports,” she concluded.
With a flicker of hope, she believes that Kerala can reignite its tradition of outstanding female athletes, provided there is a concerted effort to invest in their potential. The journey may be challenging, but with determination, Valsamma is optimistic about a brighter future for women in sports.
Related News
- Chiranjeevi donates entire ₹10 lakh NTR Award prize money to charity on Ram Charan’s birthday. Watch
- Crime boss ran gang from Dubai and WRU boss to step down
- 18 Posts That Prove Not Everyone On The Internet Is A Complete Garbage Human
- Jane Lapotaire, 81, Actress Hailed Across the Atlantic for ‘Piaf,’ Dies
- What is stamp duty and what are the thresholds?
- Are heat pumps worth it? UK costs, grants, pros and cons