Panaji: Goan athletes delivered an outstanding performance on the opening day of the 3rd National Women Masters Athletics Championship 2026, securing a total of 20 gold medals at the Athletics Stadium in Cujira, Santa Cruz, on Saturday. The event showcased remarkable talent across various age categories.
Betty D’Silva Dominates 60+ Category
Betty Sebastian D’Silva, a former volleyball star, was the standout performer for Goa, winning three gold medals in the 60+ age group. She triumphed in the discus throw, triple jump, and high jump events, demonstrating exceptional versatility and athleticism.
Maria Imelda de Sousa: Oldest Athlete Shines
Maria Imelda de Sousa, aged 91, is the oldest participant in the championship. Hailing from Mapusa, she won gold medals in the 100m sprint and shot put in the 90+ category. She is the only athlete in that age group, as Pani Devi (94) from Rajasthan had registered but did not travel to Goa.
Other Double Gold Winners
Several other Goan athletes also secured two gold medals each. Melida Pereira (75+ category) won the 100m and 400m events. Ritinha Pereira (65+) excelled in high jump and triple jump. Devi Gaonkar (50+) claimed gold in discus throw and shot put.
Perpetua Jacques Leads 80-85 Age Group
In the 80-85 years category, which features 11 athletes, Perpetua Jacques was the only Goan representative. She won a gold medal in the 100m run, adding to Goa’s medal tally.
Complete List of Goa’s Gold Medalists
- Betty D’Silva (60+): discus throw, triple jump, high jump
- Maria Imelda de Sousa (90+): 100m, shot put
- Melida Pereira (75+): 100m, 400m
- Ritinha Pereira (65+): high jump, triple jump
- Devi Gaonkar (50+): discus throw, shot put
- Perpetua Jacques (80+): 100m
- Sonali Mankoti (30+): 1500m
- Lavina Lobo (45+): 1500m
- Amita K Dessai (40+): 400m
- Soniya J Parab (40+): 5km walk
- Navashree Nayak (45+): 5km walk
- Alzira Lacerda (45+): 80m hurdles
- Ana Julieta Fernandes Abraham (75+): discus throw
Goa’s strong start in the championship highlights the depth of talent in women’s masters athletics in the state.
