Indian Army Pole Vaulter Seeta Ram to Represent India at World Masters Athletics Championship

JODHPUR, July 11, 2026 — From tending sheep in the rural fields of Bhopalgarh, Jodhpur, to standing on elite international podiums, Lance Havildar Seeta Ram’s journey is a powerful testament to raw grit and determination. As a young boy, Seeta Ram practiced pole vaulting using rudimentary wooden sticks and walked seven kilometers every single day just to train. This exceptional drive to overcome limited means eventually caught the attention of the military, and joining the Indian Army in 2005 provided his athletic ambitions with vital direction, structured discipline, and professional training.

A versatile sportsperson across multiple disciplines, Seeta Ram consistently pursued excellence in his core passion of pole vaulting. His relentless dedication culminated in a breakout year on the master’s circuit, where he secured a Silver medal at the 45th National Masters Athletics Championship in 2025, followed by a Gold medal at the 25th Asia Masters Athletics Championship in 2025.

Driven by an unwavering pursuit of excellence, Seeta Ram has now earned the prestigious honor of representing India at the upcoming 26th World Masters Athletics Championship in South Korea. He heads to the global stage carrying the inspiring story of a shepherd who refused to let humble beginnings define the height of his dreams, proving that perseverance and clear purpose can elevate anyone to international heights.