Blanka Vlasic Advocates for Women's Empowerment Through Sports at TCS World 10K Bengaluru 2026

Blanka Vlasic's Insights on Sports and Women Empowerment

Double Olympic medallist and the International Event Ambassador for the TCS World 10K Bengaluru 2026, Blanka Vlasic, recently spoke to the media in Bengaluru, emphasizing the significant role of sports in empowering women. As the 18th edition of the World Athletics Gold Label race approaches, the 42-year-old Croatian high-jumping legend shared her personal experiences with running, the evolving sports landscape in India, and her encouraging message for participants ahead of the race day.

The Transformative Power of Sports for Women

With an impressive turnout of 36,000 participants, including over 9,000 women, Vlasic highlighted the transformative effects of sports, particularly for women. She stated, "Sport is an integral part of my daily life. It influences not only physical health but also mental well-being and self-confidence. For women, having an avenue that fosters self-belief is crucial. Achieving one goal opens the door to realizing that other goals are attainable. It's inspiring to witness the increasing number of women in India embracing running."

Embracing Running After Retirement

Discussing her life after retirement, Vlasic pointed out the simplicity and accessibility of running as a means to maintain an active lifestyle. She remarked, "Post-career, I sought a way to stay fit, and running was the most straightforward option—just put on your shoes and go. It's uncomplicated yet incredibly impactful. The unique aspect of running is the camaraderie it fosters, bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds with a common goal, which enhances the enjoyment of the activity."

India's Aspiration in the Sporting Arena

Reflecting on India's sporting ambitions, particularly the possibility of hosting the Olympics in 2036, Vlasic noted that major events can ignite interest in sports among the youth. She stated, "Hosting a significant event like the Olympics can spark enthusiasm in children and motivate them to engage in sports. This momentum is vital for nurturing future athletes. If India feels prepared to bid for it, then it should certainly pursue that opportunity."

She also commented on the advancements in Indian athletics over the past decade, saying, "From my discussions here, it's evident that Indian athletics has made remarkable progress. I'm always willing to assist in any way I can."

Embracing Pressure on Race Day

As race day approaches, Vlasic shared an encouraging message for participants, highlighting the importance of embracing the experience. She said, "There's a saying that pressure is a privilege. Feeling pressure indicates that you've dedicated your time and energy to something meaningful. So, embrace it, savor the emotions, enjoy the moment, and don't stress too much about the outcome."