Nonagenarian is Mumbai marathon's star participant

MARATHON MOGUL: In all, 2700 senior citizens will be part of Sunday's marathon at Mumbai.

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Mumbai: If you thought marathons were only for the young and restless, think again.

The number of senior citizens taking part in the upcoming Mumbai Marathon increases each year. In fact, this year, the star participant is 94-year-old Dattatray Balse, or as he chooses to call himself – the ‘top man’.

“Last year, I was the top man. This year also I am the top man,” he says.

Balse, a retired banker, has been walking for more than 10 km a day since the past 60 years.

The nonagenarian proudly says, “I have never visited the hospital in the past 90 years. My bank said why not go on for medical aid? I said why? I never go for medical treatment!”

Balse, who, since the past 64 years has been beginning his regime early in the morning with two hours of brisk walking, has no fears for the marathon.

“Seven kilometers compared to 10 km is nothing!” he scoffs.

In all, 2700 senior citizens will be part of Sunday's race.