When Indian athletes rise to global acclaim, their triumphs are often celebrated, but the mentors who guide them rarely get the recognition they deserve. Dr. C. Ajithkumar — International Athletic Coach, Director of Sports, and Associate Professor — is one such guiding force, driven by a single unwavering mission:
“To create Olympic medalists for India.”
Early Life and Foundations
Born in Amarapuram, Kottayam, Kerala, to late P. K. Chellappan Sir and Janamma Teacher, Ajithkumar’s athletic journey began far from stadiums and international arenas. Under the guidance of Merikutty Teacher, he learned discipline, perseverance, and a love for athletics. His university mentor, P. V. Velsi Sir, further honed his skills, helping him transition from raw talent into a structured competitor.
His home village, Amara, along with the National Arts and Sports Club, became his earliest cheerleaders, nurturing his ambitions. In 1991, he was honored with the Best Athlete Award by the Government of Kerala, a recognition that marked the beginning of his lifelong mission to mentor champions.
Mentors Who Shaped a Legend
Ajithkumar’s journey as a coach was influenced by visionary leaders:
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Dr. Mohan Alva, Hon. Chairman of Alva’s Education Foundation, who gave him the platform to develop young athletes.
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Sri P. T. Ouseph Sir, mentor of legendary sprinter P. T. Usha, who guided him in technical and tactical aspects of athletics coaching.
This mentorship inspired him to think beyond personal achievements, setting the stage for a career that would impact Indian athletics on a national and global scale.
Leadership Across Institutions
Today, Dr. Ajithkumar balances multiple roles that combine coaching, academics, and leadership:
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Director of Sports, SBSU
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Associate Professor, Indira Gandhi Technological and Medical Sciences University, Arunachal Pradesh
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Athletic Coach, Alva’s Education Foundation, Moodbidri
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Chief Project Director, HRDS INDIA Sports Academy
Through these roles, he blends science, biomechanics, and psychology into his training philosophy, creating athletes ready for the international stage.
Historic Achievements
Dr. Ajithkumar’s coaching milestones are groundbreaking:
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In 2023, he became the first Indian coach to produce a World University Games medalist in long jump, when Bhavani Yadav Bhagavathi leapt 6.42m in Chengdu, China, winning bronze.
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Received the Best Coach Award from Kerala State Athletics Association (2017).
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Honored again with the Best Coach Award by Alva’s Education Foundation (2023).
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Credited with introducing scientific, psychological, and biomechanical training methods into Indian athletics.
Athletes Who Define His Legacy
The success of Dr. Ajithkumar’s athletes reflects his philosophy and vision:
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Bhavani Yadav Bhagavathi – World University Games bronze medalist (long jump).
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Nayana James – Asian gold medalist, ranked No. 1 in Asia (PB: 6.55m).
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Sneha – Asian silver medalist, 100m (PB: 11.41s).
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Renga K – World Police Games record holder, 100m (11.42s).
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Jijin Vijayan – National 100m record holder (PB: 10.50s).
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Stalin Jose – Decathlete, 9th at World University Games.
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Ali Ansari – Asian Youth silver medalist, now a coach.
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Rajesh Postel – Asian Junior silver medalist.
Each of these athletes represents the combination of talent, discipline, and scientific training that Dr. Ajithkumar instills in his protégés.
Philosophy That Creates Champions
Dr. Ajithkumar believes that greatness is cultivated, not accidental. His coaching principles focus on:
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Identifying and nurturing grassroots talent from an early stage.
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Using biomechanics, strength, and speed training for peak performance.
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Developing mental resilience for high-pressure international events.
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Emphasizing long-term growth, ensuring athletes peak at the right time.
He believes that discipline and scientific training, combined with talent, create champions.
Life Beyond Athletics
Away from the tracks and training grounds, Ajithkumar is a devoted family man. His wife, Reena K. K., serves as a Section Officer in the Kerala Government Secretariat, while their daughters, Aleena Ajith and Ananya Ajith, are his inspiration.
From his home in Thiruvananthapuram, he balances family life with a demanding professional career, proving that success is strongest when grounded in love and support.
Toward Olympic Glory
From his small village in Kerala to coaching athletes who shine on the world stage, Dr. C. Ajithkumar’s journey is a testament to vision, perseverance, and unwavering dedication.
His message to every aspiring athlete is clear:
“India has the talent. With the right guidance, we will conquer the world of athletics.”
✨ Dr. Ajithkumar is more than a coach — he is shaping India’s future in athletics, one champion at a time.
