Picture Credit: Mathrubhumi file photo
Former Kerala MLA MJ Jacob represented India in the World Masters Athletics Championship 2022 in two events in the men’s M80 category (aged between 80-84). When most men retire at this age, the 82-year-old has made his country proud by winning medals.
MJ Jacob, who is the former Piravom MLA, participated in the 200-meter hurdles and 80-meter hurdles competitions at the WMAC 2022 in Tampere, Finland. He has won two bronze medals in both the competitions he participated.
Jacob told the New Indian Express that he will continue participating in sports in the future. He said, "I have served my country as a politician and now as a sportsman. I am thrilled and will participate in more events in the future. Since my childhood, I have always been interested in sports. I started participating in international athletic events in 2006 and have won many medals."
Jacob, who has aimed to win a gold medal for India next year, said, "I need a little more improvement in my practice to compete with the Europeans, who are difficult to defeat."
In the Kerala State Masters Athletic Meet last year, the former CPM MLA from Piravom had won three gold medals in 80-meter hurdles, 200-meter hurdles, and long jump.