Powerlifting past 80: The unstoppable spirit of an elderly man

April 22, 2025 Unknown Wizards Valli Sarvani

In a world where retirement often signals rest, 81-year-old Palleboina Venkata Subba Rao from Bayyanagudem village in Penuballi Mandal is proving that age is merely a number.

A retired transport manager, Subba Rao has turned the twilight of his life into a stage for an inspiring second innings, not just as an athlete, but as a symbol of perseverance and passion.

Remarkably, Subba Rao didn’t begin his athletic journey in his youth. In fact, he first entered a powerlifting competition at the age of 61, driven by curiosity rather than coaching.

After observing others at a local gym, he decided to give it a shot. That decision changed everything.

At his debut event in Khammam in 2003, he bench-pressed 50 kg and walked away with a ₹2,500 prize. Since then, his journey has only soared.

Over the years, Subba Rao has claimed eight state-level and eight district-level medals in powerlifting, competing in bench press, squat, and deadlift events.

He’s done it all without any formal training. Before lifting weights, he had already collected close to 150 medals in track events, especially in the 400 and 800 metres, showcasing his all-around athleticism.

Just recently, he won first place in the 120 kg category at competitions held in Gudivada and Khammam on April 12 and 13.

His drive remains unshaken. He shared that his journey began simply as a way to stay healthy.

Over time, however, he found himself becoming deeply engaged with the sport. What initially started as an attempt to win a ₹2,500 cash prize eventually turned into a lifelong passion.

He expressed his unwavering commitment by saying he would continue lifting for as long as he lived.

His wife, Rajya Lakshmi, had been his unwavering support, often describing him as “a 30-year-old in an 81-year-old’s body” and expressing amazement at his energy and independence.

Subba Rao shared the same feeling, saying that he wouldn’t have reached that point without her.

While others slow down with age, Subba Rao is lifting heavier, running faster, and living fuller, redefining what it means to grow old.

Image from Pxhere (Free for commercial use / CC0 Public Domain)

Image Published on January 22, 2017