Asian Athletics administrative giant Suresh Kalmadi no more

By Susil Premalal

Suresh Kalmadi

Suresh Kalmadi, who was one of Asia’s most influential and active sports administrators, passed away in India. 

He was widely respected for his long-standing contributions to athletics administration at national, continental and global levels.

Kalmadi entered international sports administration through the Athletics Association of India during the 1980s. Over the years, he served with distinction as President of the Asian Athletics Association (AAA) and as the Asian Area Representative in World Athletics.

He also held office as President of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and served as Chairman of the 2010 Commonwealth Games held in Delhi, earning recognition as a veteran sports administrator.

Kalmadi served as President of the Asian Athletics Association from 2000 to 2013. During this significant period, he played a key role in strengthening Asian athletics and expanding its global presence. He was instrumental in launching major competitions such as the Asian Grand Prix Series, the Asian Indoor Athletics Championships, and the Asian All Star Meet.

He also extended notable support to Sri Lanka, particularly during the 2002 Asian Athletics Championships hosted in Sri Lanka and the 2006 South Asian Games. His contributions to Sri Lankan athletics administration were widely appreciated.

The late Kalmadi also served as a Member of Parliament and was 81 years old at the time of his death.