At 60, Khurshid Mistry stands as a living example of perseverance, adaptability, and triumph over challenges. Known for her stellar achievements in marathon running and sprinting, she has now ventured into the realm of competitive swimming, proving that age is no barrier to setting new goals and achieving greatness. Her story is one of grit and determination, inspiring individuals across generations to pursue their passions fearlessly and to constantly evolve.
Making a Splash in Competitive Swimming
Khurshid Mistry’s foray into swimming has been nothing short of extraordinary. While many athletes struggle to transition between sports, Khurshid has done it with poise and excellence. In October 2024, she participated in the National Masters Swimming Championship, organized by the Nashik District Aquatic Association. Competing in her age category, she won an impressive three gold medals. These victories showcased not only her natural athleticism but also her ability to master new disciplines with limited prior experience.
Her success in swimming didn’t stop there. Just two months later, in December 2024, she competed in the Maharashtra State Masters Games Championship in Nasik. Despite the chilly winter and the daunting challenge of swimming in ice-cold water, Khurshid triumphed again, winning three more gold medals. This time, she conquered the 50-meter freestyle, breaststroke, and backstroke events in her age group. Reflecting on her journey, Khurshid shared, “The most challenging part of this competition was swimming in ice-cold water. I am so happy that in place of running, which I am presently unable to do due to my knee injury, I am doing swimming so well in such a short span of time.”
The fact that this was only her second swimming competition makes these achievements all the more remarkable. Her story highlights her indomitable spirit and her readiness to embrace new challenges, no matter how daunting they may seem.
A Champion in Every Arena
Khurshid Mistry’s journey as an athlete began at the age of 44—a time when most people believe they have missed the opportunity to pursue competitive sports. Yet, Khurshid defied expectations. Her passion and commitment led her to dominate the world of athletics, particularly in marathon running and sprinting. Over the years, she has amassed an enviable collection of accolades. She has participated in and won numerous events at state, national, and even international levels.
A retired senior vice president from UTI Mutual Fund, Khurshid seamlessly transitioned from a successful corporate career to becoming a celebrated athlete. In marathon running, she has a Guinness World Record to her name, and she was recognized as the Best Female Athlete at the National Corporate Championships in 2015. Her impressive track record includes victories in 38 half marathons and 25 10-kilometer races, establishing her as a force to be reckoned with.
Not only has she excelled in running, but Khurshid has also represented India internationally, participating in the Asian Masters Athletics Championship in Malaysia and the World Masters Games in New Zealand. Her accomplishments in the 100m, 200m, and 400m events have inspired countless women and men to push the boundaries of their potential.
Overcoming Setbacks with Grace
Every athlete faces setbacks, and Khurshid Mistry is no exception. A recent knee injury forced her to pause her running career—a moment that would discourage most. But not Khurshid. Instead of dwelling on what she couldn’t do, she focused on what she could achieve. Swimming became her new passion, and she dedicated herself to excelling in the sport.
Her transition to swimming is a testament to her resilience and determination. In a short period, she has achieved what many seasoned swimmers aspire to accomplish. Her ability to adapt and thrive under challenging circumstances reflects her inner strength and relentless drive to succeed.
An Inspiration to All
Khurshid Mistry’s story is more than just a series of athletic accomplishments—it is a lesson in living life to the fullest, no matter the obstacles. Her journey is a shining example of how it is never too late to start something new, to learn, and to excel. She has proven that with passion, dedication, and a positive attitude, one can continue to set and achieve goals at any stage of life.
Her victories in both running and swimming showcase her versatility and commitment to pushing her own limits. Whether it’s breaking records on the track or making waves in the pool, Khurshid has demonstrated that true champions are those who never stop striving for greatness.
Her achievements serve as a source of motivation for everyone—from young athletes just starting their journey to older individuals who may feel hesitant about pursuing their dreams. Khurshid’s life reminds us that challenges are simply opportunities to grow, adapt, and conquer.
Looking Ahead
As Khurshid Mistry continues to explore new avenues and excel in her athletic pursuits, her story inspires hope and courage in all who hear it. From running marathons and sprints to diving into swimming with confidence, she has shown that the human spirit is boundless. We can’t wait to see what this incredible athlete will accomplish next as she continues riding the waves—both literally and metaphorically.
Here’s to Khurshid Mistry, a true trailblazer and an inspiration to us all!