Gladys Pais, a retired schoolteacher and veteran athlete residing in Pallamajalu in Bantwal taluk, Dakshina Kannada district, has brought international acclaim to her hometown by winning two medals at the World Masters Athletics Championships 2026 held in Daegu, South Korea. Representing India in the Women’s 70–75 age category at the championship held from August 22 to September 3, 2026, Pais delivered outstanding performances across multiple track and field events.
She secured the silver medal in the triple jump event with a mark of 6.85 metres, showcasing remarkable technique and agility. She followed this achievement by clinching the bronze medal in the 200-metre hurdles with a time of 46.19 seconds. Pais, who took up competitive masters athletics after retiring from her teaching career, had previously bagged numerous national and Asian-level medals. However, this double-medal performance at the world championship represents a major high point in her athletic journey.
For the residents of Bantwal taluk, Pais’s international triumph is a matter of immense pride. Local community members, sports enthusiasts, and educational bodies have showered praise on the veteran athlete for her dedication and resilience. Her success highlights the athletic talent emerging from Dakshina Kannada’s rural pockets and serves as an inspiring reminder to people of all ages that passion and physical fitness know no age limits.
