BSA Hercules Bangalore Duathlon, 2009

Finally we have a duathlon event of our own. BSA Hercules Bangalore Duathlon 2009 was officially the first of its kind in India. Some of my overseas friend might find it amusing but then we are largely cricket crazy nation. Such things don't make much of news. Duathlon is typically a Cycling and Running event. Though on the surface one might feel that there isn't much of a culture for such sports, but scratch a little deeper, and you will see a completely different tribe of people leading a parallel life to make such events possible in this country. Bangalore happens to be light years ahead of other cities, with various running and cycling groups in action. Runners for life (RFL) group being one of them, responsible for conducting this event. Though this event was sponsored by BSA Hercules, it showcased some of the higher end, premium bikes from Bianchi, Trek, Merida etc. These bikes can range from INR 30,000 to INR 1 Lac and above. These bikes happen to be equipped with state of the art technology - disc brakes, adjustable shockers, smooth gear changing system, flip and dismantle concept. Some road bikes can weigh no more than 8 kilos.

This event was conducted on 14th of June, 30km away from Bangalore on the Sarjapur Highway. There were a total 300 odd participants, out of which 200 took part in 5km/10km event, and 100 of them did 10km/20km. Participants had to run a 5km distance, cycle for 20 km and then run 5 km distance again.

5 km, 26 mts 54 sec: Beautiful weather greeted us in the early hours of morning. The location being far away from city was green as far as eyes to look. The race started at 7:17 am. It was a completely difference feeling. While running 5k was not a challenge but running 15% faster than normal speed, on a road which is anything but flat course is a breath taking experience. There was adequate arrangement of water and fruits across the course. At 7:30 in the morning, even the highway was relatively empty. As we completed the 5 km run, the bikes were neatly stacked in 'transition' area.

20km, 55 mts 25 sec: As we picked up the bike, participants had to walk a bit in order to ensure bikers don't hit the runners coming to pick up the bike. Moving from running to cycling was an easy transition. Body takes this opportunity to 'recover' during this phase. All kinds of bikes zipped on the course. It was great feeling to hit the road. At some parts where there was too much of climb, it did become tough, but a great experience. Thankfully there was no unfortunate incident with traffic being manage by traffic police very effectively. Though I am used to covering 70k to 90k on my bike, but racing along with others means you are always pushing your body.

5 km, 32 mts 30 sec: As we approached the last leg, I knew this will be toughest one. We parked the bikes on the same spot, neatly and started our last 5 k run. This transition is the toughest and trust me, a lot of server space on the internet has been utilised to make the participants aware on how to tackle such transitions, so much so there are forums on handling transitions. Professional Athletes train specially to handle these transition phases. In simple words, body takes huge efforts to switch from usage of one set of muscles to another. Entire body goes thru a drag effect. It took me some 10-12 minutes to get used to running. Ones in the groove, it was mere momentum that kept going. As we reached the finishing point, organisers were standing congratulating each and every participant.

This was a very different experience than just running for hours and hours. But than, its a challenge conducting such events where there is not much of know-how. Seeing the first time response, I am sure it will encourage Organisers to do a bigger show next time. In a place like Mumbai, cycling is typically associated with the peons, milk man, delivery boys. Hopefully we have more of these events picking up all across the country, creating awareness on what fun it can be riding these state of the art eco friendly machines.

Sorry! No photos this time !!

Mumbai Half Marathon 2009 (21 km) : 1 hr 49 mts

"If god invented marathons to keep people from doing anything more stupid,
the triathlon must have taken Him completely by surprise."

"I want 1hr 45mts this time ", I heard her firm voice, as I was leaving the house. I nodded, with little nervousness. This was out of the box thinking from my wife. Just one and half month back, I had clocked 2 hr 3 mts in Delhi, on an absolute flat course one can get. Mumbai course was definitely not so flat. But at 5 am, while heading for the big event, my male instincts advised against any counter reaction. The course and heat were precisely the reason why I chose to stay away from 42 km this time. Last year's experience still lingered in my mind, even though I went on to do some decent full marathons after that. All I knew was that it being my last race for this season, it had to be something special.

For last few years, three of us have been representing a NGO, Multiple Sclerosis Society of India (MSSI) in Mumbai Marathon. Rajeev Khatri, from Delhi participated in wheel-chair race, Milind Soman from Mumbai ran the 42 km, and I ran in 21 km category. Rajeev has won a bronze medal in Malaysia Open, Tennis-on-Wheelchair in the month of October. All three of us had unique experience and surely some stories to share while participating in this event. In terms of participation, Mumbai marathon is just becoming bigger and bigger. A count of 35,000 runners in all categories is an evidence in itself. But 42 km (unlike Overseas Marathons) still remains a not so favored category amongst the runners with a mere participation of 2,500.

18 Jan 2009, 6:45 am, CST: As the race began, I knew I had to follow a plan and I would be required to do a lot of calculations also. The music, cheers and people added a lot of vigour. Before any long distance run, two aspects are to be taken care, eat well and keep hydrated. First 5km to 7km, body really struggles to get the momentum. Timing of 1:45 was in the back on my mind. I managed to do first 5km in 25 mts 25 sec, but I was already panting. I did wonder if I would be able to maintain this pace for next 16km. One of the best ways of increasing speed in long runs is to do fast 8-10km or fast 15 km repeatedly during training. By the time we finished the 8km mark we were on our way to Peddar road. For once I was leaving more runner behind, then being left behind. Just after Haji Ali we completed 10 km, taking 26 mt 10 sec for the next 5 km. I was almost on the target, but key lay in running faster then before. The course took turn from Mela Restaurant at Worli and continued back.
On the way back, Peddar road climb was to be tough in order to maintain the pace. The best part of this entire experience was that till the end I never frowned or felt discomfort mentally or physically. I was very relaxed and really into it. On the way back we met the lead pack of full marathon runners. As always a sight to watch them run. I kept on pushing till I touched 15km, 26mt 30sec for third leg. From here on it was down hill and then the flat course of Marine drive. A slight change in style of running and some hours I spent in Gym in past two months were showing up. For the last 8 km, I managed to tag along with two runners, maintaining a good pace. At Churchgate I touched 20km mark, 26 mts 42 sec in last leg of 5 km. It was already 1:44. There was no way I could complete the run in 1:45, but I did get her message. I was already dashing to the finishing line with personal best timing of half marathon. I finished the last 1 km in 5:12, clocking the half marathon in 1hr 49mts, my personal best time.

In last four months I successfully completed 2 full (42km) marathons and 2 half (21km) marathons. Definitely a feat I want to celebrate. While I was enjoying my achievement, lost in my thoughts, I heard her firm voice again, "You should take a year sabbatical and prepare for Commonwealth Games 2010 !!"....Powerful thought !!!

Singapore Full Marathon 2008 (42km): 5 hrs 00 Min 35 Sec

Almost a sub five hour run.. !!!
This was something I had been planning, but it will come in just fourth race, was something I had not contemplated. Cutting down almost half an hour from the last years timing is a great feeling !! Till November, I was hardly prepared for a Full marathon, physically or mentally. It was only in last 30 days that I really slogged. If one can get used to the humidity levels, Singapore marathon is a great run. It remains one of the fastest growing sports event of Asia. A participation level of 50,000 runners in all levels is huge. They say, "Whatever time you finish, we will be waiting for you", shows to such a great extent the Organisers go to take care of the runners.
7th Nov, 5:30 am: Approximately 15,000 runners lined up for the run. Even at 5:30 am it was very humid. Since last year when I ran my first marathon over here, my entire approach had changed. Last year I was nervous, excited. Now it was a very mechanical activity. Land on Sat morning, run on Sunday and back on Monday. The race started near the Esplanade, leading thru the Business area for Singapore. In the month of September, on the same roads, there were formula 1 car scorching in the middle of the night, when Singapore hosted the world's first Night Grand Prix. Race was won by Lewis Hamilton, eventual Grand Prix champion for 2008. So while our shoes scorched on the same roads, the humidity level was very high. We were sweating profusely even at 6:00 am. The first 10 km finished in 1 hour, 6 mts.
As the sun rose, the weather become better, with little bit of clouds and wind. Running was smooth. I ensured that I was properly hydrated. At the 12km, we joined into the East Coast Park. One has to fall in love with this part of city. I had been waiting for this section of the run since last night. Lots of greenery, running view of the sea across the entire park, Ships anchored. The entire stretch of this park is 18 km and its worth every minute you spend over here. This stretch takes you almost till Changi Airport. The 11km to 20km were very smooth and comfortable. I was able to finish this leg in 1 hour 4 mts. For long distance runners, after a point, running becomes more of a yoga, control of breathing. There is a "breathing" pattern every runner has, synchronised with the steps. Once that is achieved, the runner can keep on running till finally legs give away. Once this state is achieved, he/she will never be out of breathe. This is what a runner means when one says "I got the rhythm".
The race was won by Luke Kibet, Kenyan, in 2 hours 13 mts, a record for this event. He had won the gold medal at the 2007 World Championships in Athletics in a time of 2:15:59 hours. That was the first Kenyan marathon victory at the World Championships since 1987.
As I closed onto the 20km to 30km, which took me 1 hour 13 mts, I was still feeling strength in my legs. Interestingly this was the first time I was not experiencing any feeling of a cramp or fatigue. It is at around 32km, the sun was shining brightly and was becoming hard for the runners. Thankfully most of Singapore is covered with lots of trees, imported from Malaysia. As I closed on the 35km mark I was feeling very upbeat, as I was exactly into 4 hours of the run. My best till date. Unfortunately I ran out of fuel after 35 km, as I took 1 hour to do last 7 km. The last 2 km of these runs are the best for obvious reasons. There are hoards of people to cheer and the feeling of finishing the 42k is always tremendous. I tried my level best to dash for the last 1 km to beat the 5 hour mark, but missed by 35 sec. Nevertheless, it was a real runners high feeling by improving on the timing by 29 minutes since last run at Singapore!! At one point when I thought I had reached the plateau of my performance, this one really spurred my imagination further and has motivated me to catapult myself to a completely different level all together.

Airtel Delhi Half Marathon (21km) : 2hrs 03 mts

Running a 21km Half marathon in close to 2 hours is no more a challenge. My normal schedule ensures that I do this every 10 days. But this race was different. It had different challenges. One, recovering from the exertion of a full marathon done in September (Berlin Marathon). Second challenge was copping up with a very demanding work pressure. The result of the same was that I barely ran for more than 3 days between 29th September and 8th Nov. I dared to participate without a preparation only because it was 21 km. Had it been a 42km, I would have safely stayed way. But there was always a doubt of uncertainty in terms of completion.
9th Nov, 2008, Delhi: Delhi Marathon projected as the richest Half marathon in Asia, with a tofla prize money of $2,10,000. This was the third edition of Delhi Half marathon, starting from Hutch to Vodafone and then finally to Airterl Delhi Half marathon. I have been lucky enough to participate in all three. This event had some 7000 participants. The weather in Delhi at this time of year is pleasant. A bit of smog ensured that the sun did not shine till the race was finished. Buzzing with excitement, the race started at 7:30. As always, its a pleasure running on the roads of Delhi, with no cars zipping past. Wide roads, greenery around, the coarse looks beautiful though out. I had come with a mind to enjoy the race. I wanted to enjoy the journey, not the destination, for that is where I was to spend more time.
I was consistently running a pace of 6 minutes per km. The 10 km mark was completed in less than an hour. Even at 10km, I could feel that still lot of energy was left. I continued to maintain the pace at 12km and beyond. When I touched 14km, I was doing a good pace of 5:30 minutes per km. This was really giving me a kick. But obviously I was running a risk of injuring myself. The best par to 21km i that even before you realised, the race is about to finish. At 15 km mark, I realised that only 6 km more where left. The weather was good and was really helping. I remember the first editing being held in Oct had sun shinning very strong at halfway.
This time the race was won by an Ethiopian, Deriba Merga, completing the race in 59 mts and 15 sec, a record time for this event. At Beijing Olympics, he had finished 4rth in the Marathon event. At around 18km finally my lack of preparedness started showing when I started slowing down. I could feel stiffness in my calves. Nevertheless I was feeling extremely satisfied so I didn't mind slowing down. I had kept a target of 2:20 minutes, but went much beyond my expectations. As I ran past the finishing line, I finished my 8th half marathon, and another completion medal on my soft board. Each and every medal I have, has a different story and different circumstances to relate, but there is one common string which runs across these medals, the feeling of grit and determination.

Berlin Full Marathon (42km) : 5hrs 18mts 47sec

"When you are inspired by some great purpose, some extraordinary project, all your thoughts break their bonds: Your mind transcends limitations, your consciousness expands in every direction, and you find yourself in a new, great, and wonderful world. Dormant forces, faculties and talents become alive, and your discover yourself to be a greater person by far than you ever dreamed yourself to be."
Patanjali - Indian Philospher
28th of Sept 2008: Berlin, near Reichstag
Everytime a marathon runner gets on to the track, there are a lot of limitations the mind transcends. But then running a Berlin Marathon, one of the world's major marathon, in itself is one of the most divine experience. This is the biggest any stage can be. A participation of 40,000 people, 35 countries. A track which has created history a lot many times. It was just enough to inspire me to run a 5hr 18mts marathon, improvising my last marathon time (Mumbai) by 40 minutes and my best time (Singapore) by 11 minutes. It is the flattest of the tracks, with excellent history associated around each turn. Some of the fastest timings have been set on this course. This is year was no different. Haile Gabrselassie, from Ethiopia become the first man to run a marathon under 2hr 4 minutes.
Being used to run in the 25-20 degree temperature, a 10 degree temperature was a real treat to start with. My enthusiasm was too apparent, with runners moving around in full tracks, while I was roaming in my singlet and shorts. The temperature reached 14 degrees till the finish. As I was doing some warms up, a bunch of African runners crossed by. I knew I was watching the world champions/Olympic medal winners in action. The race was to start from Reichstag, a location which most of us recall in photographs of Hitler, while saluting his mighty army.
As the race started at 9:00 am. Some of the Norwegian runners had told me that its too early for them !! The enthusiasm was everywhere. First 10km are always a smooth sail. You enjoy the scenic beauty and enjoy being a part of the event. The city is very picturesque, having 30% of its area covered with trees, and a population of mere 34 lacs. Doing an overseas run is very different. A lot of things including health part needs to fall in place and finally being able to make it to the starting point is itself very satisfying. After this its just your mental and physical preparation. I finished the first 10k in exactly 1 hour.
My speed was good and I felt that I could do a good time. This is a very normal feeling at around 15 km. There was no reason for me to get carried away cause I knew it will be different once I cross the 25km mark. The atmosphere was vibrant, with families laying down make shift tables with their breakfast spreadout. There were rock bands playing saxophones and guitars. One samaritan went out of the way to offer beer to the runners. This is the first time I had beer while running a marathon. Not sure about others, but it did wonders for me. Meanwhile I crossed the famous TV tower "Fernsehturm" some 350 mts high, built by the East Berlin regime to prove their might. I finished the second 10km stretch in 1 hour 10 mts.
Its was a strange feeling running across from erstwhile East Berlin to West Berlin and why not. Some two decades before if I would have tried, I would be shot dead. There are a lot of stories attached to this place. As I was running in the 20km to 30km stretch, I started having cramps in the thigh muscle. This was a awkward situation. Technically thigh muscle is our walking muscle and hamstring is our running muscle. If I walked, then I would have damaged my thigh muscle all the more. I just hung on. Such situations attract lot of negative thought instantly. My mind was full with doubts and after travelling 7000km, I didn't want a DNC (Did not complete) put against my name. Minds starts to play very fast. I attracting negative thoughts which had no relation to marathon at all. But I guess the trick lay in hanging on to the last twig. As luck would have it, at around the 30km mark, cramps disappeared. I took some 1 hour and 25 minutes to complete this stretch of 20k to 30k.
After the 30k mark, I really started enjoying the run. One most remarkable thing about the run was that I did not see a single patch in entire 42km, where there were no people to cheer. Entire course was adorned with people enjoying the run. Once I crossed the 35km mark, I knew its a matter of time that I will reach the finish. This stretch took me across some beautiful Gothic structures. The pleasure of running on flat wide roads, covered with trees, autumn fall changing the color of maple leaves, historic monuments around, was immense. Berlin marathon is a dream run for a marathoners. I had to be blessed to have been able to be a part of this event. The 30k to 40 took some 1 hour 20 mts, which was faster then the 20k-30k stretch.
Then came the most romantic stretch, the last 2 km. This really gives a runners high. Its as if you have received a shot in the arm. The body runs in on its own, purely on its own momentum. Mind is numb and only thing it can think is of finishing. As I came on the last bit of the race, the feeling was awesome. The sight of Brandegurger gate towering ahead was one sight probably I shall never forget. As I successfully finished my third Full marathon, I felt that more than a platform to prove my physical endurance, this had become more of mental challenge; crossing of the finishing line. I know that with a mere 1 hour a day practice, I will be always be in the category of slow runners. But the challenge lies in stealing that 1 hour, despite the time pressure of multiple roles one has to play in life. So as they say..... Next is what.!!

Mumbai Full Marathon (42k) : 5hrs 51mts 55sec

If you are a part of those thousand Indians out of a Billion, who are to attempt the longest recognised athletic distance, you automatically know that you are a blessed soul. Its time to keep aside your higher-end training shoes, state-of-the-art instant dry apparels, Power gels, Energy Bars, and close your eyes with all modesty and humbleness to thank God for making this happen. Whether you complete the run or not, is totally on the preparation one has done. I must admit that some three weeks down the line I had lost my focus on the preparation. This showed significantly on the last 15km of the course.

7:40 am; 0:00:00, Azad Maidan; There were not many takers for the Full Marathon. Count was limited to 1300 participants, including overseas runners. During the start, there were a lot of enthusiastic runners from various walk of life. Surely, they knew what they are into. I definitely knew this would be a toughest race I would have done till date. As the race started, participants picked up their pace. Sun was already up an shining and was to just get stronger.

0 km - 10 km, 01:02:23 ; While doing the first 10k, I was keenly watching the half marathon contestants running on the other side of the road. Till last year I was a part of them. The first leg did not take much efforts and infact I was through the Peddar road flyover without any issues. I was satisfied with the current pace, looking at trying to improve my 5hr 28mt time of last marathon. Guess it was too early to judge.

11 km - 20 km, 01:10:40; The second leg of the race saw us go past Annie Besant road, to Worli Seaface, Shivaji Park and Mahim Junction. Though I managed this leg with comfort, but at around 18k, my calves were showing signs of fatigue, This was not a very good sign, as I had a significant distance to cover. Contestants were evenly spread out across the course. As I finished 20k mark, the Full Marathon was already won by some superhuman.

21 km - 30km, 01:33:20 ; This phase took us from Bandra Reclamation, back to Mahim Junction, Shivaji Park and then to Worli Seaface. At Bandra Reclamation, my wife and kids awaited with some drinks. For the first time my kids saw me running a race. But probably it would take them another 10 years to understand the magnonimity of the task. It surely was great feeling to see them amidst all the struggle. My knee had started paining. I knew this will just keep getting tougher from here on. It was already around 11:15 am. Heat was coming out from the tarmac into the shoes.

31 km - 42km, 02:06:00 ; I must admit that I had to walk most of this distance. My lack of practice and focus was showing up and I am definitely not trained to run at 12:30 pm or 1:00 pm. We were 4hr and 30 mts into the race. At Mahalaxmi race course, a police van was escorting a bus, meant for tired runners who wanted a hitch back to finish point. Some of the runners in the bus asked me to come in. Nothing doing. My legs were hurting, my sole was numb, but this option was definitely not on cards. They cheered my spirits as the bus went away. I was left wondering if I did the right thing. But this was not the end. Trust me, trying to run on the Peddar road at 1:00 pm, after you have already done some 35km is no joke. It can send your thoughts spiralling. I just wanted to go home, snuggle into my bed and go off to sleep, pretending that it was just a bad dream. I almost stopped a cab to take a ride back home. But just the thought of going back empty handed, without a completion medal was very depressing. My kids look forward for such booties. I continued walking. By this time traffic was released and we were left to fend for ourselves, mostly running or walking on the footpath. As we reached near the finishing point, I was in no condition to run, but managed to cross the line at 05:51:55. This was surely a bad day at the office. I did get the completion medal, which I gladly handed over to my kids as soon I reached home. They were thrilled. Now it is lying somewhere at the bottom of their toy basket. Anyway, its was never mine, it was always theirs.

I read this line somewhere, "I am a dedicated and determined marathon runner, only God can judge my running and only God can stop me from running."- Anonymous.

Singapore Full Marathon (42k) : 5hrs 28mts 18sec

Full Marathon is classified as an extreme sport. A person is not fit for a participation in Full marathon, if running is considered only as 'running'. It's a complete experience, a path to salvation. A path, where you come across your emotional and physical limitations. You have to deal with them right there and then. Some runners break down in this process, but go back happy thinking that atleast they dared to dream. Some do manage to overcome their limitations and hit the finishing line, immerging a better person. These thoughts are not applicable to professionals, who run for fame and money. Its valid only for amateurs, who run for no reason but only because their heart says so. They know they will go back empty handed, but only after they have won their own little battle.

02 Dec 2007, 5:30 AM, Esplanade, Singapore : A total of 40,000 people participated in the event, out of which 12,000 runners were to give a shot at 42k, out of which 2500 were overseas' runners, and I was one of them. The stage couldn't be bigger then this. This was my first full marathon. Slightly nervous, since I was not really sure what pain and stress I was about to go thru. As the gun went off, somewhere in the back of my mind a thought crossed my mind that I will be running for next 5-6 hours.

0k-10km; 1:06 : The first lap was very comfortable. Route took us across the Business district, Marina Bay. I was still in awe of the enormity of the event. This time around, the timing did not matter. I just wanted to finish the event without any injury. I wanted to enjoy each moment. The scenic beauty and greenery around kept the tempo going.

10k-20k, 1:10 : The next lap took us thru the Dome type structure of Esplanade, Huge towers of Suntec. The view around was just getting better but the best was yet to come. I was able to maintain a consistent speed, though I was not really sure what was in store. Across the tall towers I saw the sun rising. Uptill 20k was a known territory for me, since I had done 7 half marathons. The interesting section was yet to come.

20k-30k, 1:20 : We entered in one of the most beautiful running track in the world, the East Coast Park. It is an 11k long beach road, running parallel to the silver white beach. In mornings and evening the place is crowded with people doing cycling, roller skating, eating in some of the finest sea food restaurants, even camping over night. Around 25k, the fatigue was setting in slowly. Evenly spread water junctions were a big help in keeping hydrated. Two more hours to go..!! I tried to keep my mind off such thoughts by admiring the ships anchored in the sea. I could see a few runners pulling out due to muscle cramps, shivers...Well no one said its going to be easy.

30k-40k, 1:32 : This is perhaps the most difficult lap, where muscles can snap and spirits can break. To add on to hurdles, the Sun is also the strongest. In Marathon parlance, runners can 'hit the wall'. I was managing a smooth pace, though I could feel the fatigue in thighs and pain in knees. But I knew I had the chance to reach the finishing line. The course continued on the beautiful East Coast Park. Families picnicking & cheering the runners, school bands, cheer groups were making the run very interesting. Around the 36k, I realised all was not fun. I was finding it difficult to lift the legs. After over 4 hours of pounding on the road, my feet were completely numb. One of the runner was being carried on a stretcher, into the ambulance....Well no one said its going to be easy.

40k-42.195k, 0:18:30 : This is the most spiritual lap for any marathoner. Any doubts about finishing the race are laid to rest, replace by euphoria. The sight of 40k mark pumped in some Adrenalin. My pace started increasing, body was completely numb. Cheering was getting louder for the runners. I felt as fresh as I did when the race had begun. With finishing line just 100m away, I slowed down. I wanted to cherish every second. At 05:28:18, I finally crossed the line. After reaching into the holding area, I just sat on the ground. I could finally feel the aches, the cuts and bruises on my body. While lying on the ground, I looked up and smiled........Well no one said its going to be easy, but then no one said its going to be impossible...!!

Vodafone Delhi Half Marathon - Oct 2007

After 7 half marathon races, and two and half years, I was finally able to run a sub 2 hour half marathon. I managed to improve my last race (SCB Marathon 2007) timing of 02:03:32 by 6 minutes.

New Delhi, 28 Oct 2007, 5:00 am :- I woke up by a call from my friend, also doing the 21k. We were to work out our plan to meet at the holding area. He would help me set the pace. This time around, I somehow felt it will be a good run. My practice timings were good. Unlike last race in Jan 2007, where I started the 'assault' at 11k, the plan here was different and simple. I would start the 'assault' at the word go itself.

Nehru park, 07:45 am, 00:00:00 :- There were approximately 7000 participants in 21k. It surely was a bit late in the morning to start a long distance race. Sun was already up and shinning bright. Elite runners took of on the wave of the flag, while we amateurs started half a minute after they are flagged off. There is always a lot of excitement in the air. Everybody is pacing and pushing. Its one experience to feel the aura and energy around. I picked up the speed on which I planned to finish the race. I had no intention to run on the different speeds, like earlier times.

00:27:40, 5km :- I had completed the 5k mark at a almost 5mt 30sec per km speed. The first leg was as per the plan. Sun was already up and sapping the energy. I did not miss picking up a water bottle from any water point. Delhi roads, sans snarling traffic, are beautiful. Thankfully there is so much of greenery and it made a difference. I was very comfortable with the speed, but was praying that I don't end up with a cramp, very much possible in such conditions. My pace setter was already much ahead that I could not even see him.

00:55:21, 10km :- For the first time in any race, I felt that 10k finished in a jiffy. I had taken 27mts 30sec to do the next 5k, which was faster that first 5k. This leg was full of ironies. This stretch covered the most scenic view of Delhi, the Rajpath. On one way we had Rashtrapati Bhavan looming large in front, while on return we had the beautiful view of India Gate. It was around 8:30 am and sun was getting brighter. Last year I was extremely exhausted on this stretch and had to walk some portion of this leg, losing lot of time. This time I saw thru the part gracefully. Finally my pace setter was in sight, 400 meters ahead of me now.

01:21:20, 15km :- Once you complete 12k, there is a comfort which comes up since remaining distance left is in single digit. I completed the third 5k in 25 mts 29 sec. This meant 5mts 12 sec per km,the fastest pace of the race. Mentally I was going stronger by kilometer, but my calf were showing signs of fatigue. Sun was burning with temperature hovering around 30 degrees. It was slightly over 9 am and heat was getting to the runners. Pace setter, some 200mts away. By the way, our African friends were already thru with the race some twenty minutes back. It is always a treat to watch them pound their legs on the road. It is as graceful as watching a cheetah in running motion.

01:51:40, 20km :- I knew this was one good chance to do a sub 2 hour run. I had the target in my sight, even though due to fatigue, last 5 km were the slowest of the race, 30mts 20sec. I just had to maintain the pace. The crowd was also visible now. At the 18km, I was surprised and happy to see cheer girls jumping and shouting while I crossed them. It took me sometime to realise that Milind Soman was running behind me. On the 19k, I finally managed to over take my pace setter. God bless him to help me maintain my pace.

01:57:23, 21km :- I managed to cross the finishing line under 2 hours, for me an achievement no less than Roger Bannister's sub 4mts mile run. From the time I ran the first 21k in Jan 2005, when I took 2hr 45 mts, and had limped last 7km, I have shaved off 48 minutes.

Target Full Marathon - Sept'07

Nows days I am training for the Full marathon which will be conducted in Bagalore, in the month of Sept. Recovering from small aliments like shin split and some pain in knee, the preparation is going fine. Currently touching 30-40 km per week. Surely more to be done.

Delhi Marathon postponed..!!!

Guess what ... the Delhi Marathon event has been postponed to 25th of Feb, for 'unavoidable circumstances'. So convenient.....

Set for Delhi Half Marathon 2007

On the 11th of Feb, I am participating in Delhi Marathon (Half) 2007. Yet to recieve the bib number. Though the site http://www.delhimarathon.com/ gives all details, but entire route is not charted on the site. Neither the race timings mentioned. I am all set to do a sub 2 hour run now.

Standard Chartered Mumbai Marathon 2007

21st Jan, 6:30 am: It was a usual Sunday morning. I was warming up to do my usual long distance run. As usual I had planned to do 21 km. But the unusual thing about today was that I would be doing 21km with 7000 odd runners. After all it was the day for Stanchart Mumbai Marathon. The atmosphere was amazing. Like so many of other runners, I also had a point to prove to myself.

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0 km; 0:00 ; Near CST: Half marathon (21 km) started at 6:45 am. This was my 6th half marathon but I could still feel the goose bumps all over my body. ‘This is what I want to do for the rest of my life’, I said to myself. There was excitement and cheering. I knew I had to be careful not to be carried away by this infectious enthusiasm. I would be running continuously for next 2 hours.

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5km; 28 mts; Crossing the scenic Marine Drive: I turned around to see the sun rise. It was beautiful. Already half an hour into run, I could feel the fatigue and panting. I knew this is early excitement and body will get into rhythm by 8-9 km. I continued to sip some water while running.

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10km; 58mts; Near Haji Ali: We were done halfway. The first tough part of running over Kemps corner flyover was done. At 12k, I could feel the body getting tired. It was time to consume a bar of Mars. That gave me good boost to pick up the pace. On the way back, I was game for another climb over the Kemps Corner flyover. Some of the best races were run with slow first half and fast second half.

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15km; 1hr:28mts; Marine Drive crossing: I knew I was doing a good time and could look at sub 2 hours time. This thought pushed me further. I was pouring water over me, to keep myself cool. I could feel the pain in my legs. It took me another bar of Mars to give some fillip. There is always a unique bonding amongst the running community which help see thru the tough times. A chat or two on the way, with other runners helps you get back to focus.

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17km; 1hr:42mts; Marine drive: Now with just 4 km left, I went on to push my body further. It was then that I had this wonderful experience, which also inspired me to write this article. I had it in my heart to do a sub 2 hour run and I knew I was near it. I started having goose bumps and sudden rush of adrenalin. At the last stage I was doing 5 mts per km. This was my fastest pace in entire race. I was full of energy, clenching my teeth. The pain had disappeared and I was breathing hard.

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Finally I could see the finish line. The pace kept on increasing and pain kept on decreasing. I could hardly hear the noise around. Unfortunately I missed the mark by 3 mts, completing in 2:03. But the last 4 km gave me a real booster, since I knew I could have continued running, if required. In other words, I am mentally ready to aim for a 42 km, the dream of all runners…. So excuse me, while I kiss the sky.

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Till date performances in SCMM :

SCMM 2005, 21k : 02hrs 42mts

SCMM 2006, 21k : 02hrs 09mts

SCMM 2007, 21k : 02hrs 03mts

Pune International Marathon 26th Nov 2006

On the 26th of Nov I participated in the Hutch Pune International Marathon. This Marathon is the oldest in India. This was the 21st run conducted in the beautiful city of Pune. BTW, this marathon is used as the selection point for India's olympic team for marathon.

The 42k run started @ 7.30 am, with some 7000 participants, which included 50 professional athletes. Well starting point is the only time I get to see them... after which they all take off like a bullet. Evertime, the gun is fired to start a race, I always have goose pimples, and I say to myself, that this is what I want to do for the rest of my life. The excitement is always such that I am panting by 5k, but slowly the body and thoughts stabilise by 8-10k. Its only around 10k I am able to get into the rhythm, where strides and breath get into sync.

There was good traffic management and water points were enuf. But not sure why small kids in school uniform were made to stand in the sun, waving small flags. I could manage only 20k in this run since there was a time barrier of below 1:30 for completing 20k else you are stopped...... and I took 2:02. Actually 1:30 is really fast timing by any standards. Will have to leave my job, hire a coach to achieve it. I did a fast 10k (my standards) in about 00:54 mts and was looking upbeat to do 20k below 1:50, but slight elevations and unevenness in roads got better of me and my calf and left knee were really hurting by the time I did 20k. I think I overstressed .

Over all it ways a good experience. This was the second time I participated in Pune marathon. Last year (04rth Dec 2005) I had clocked 2:11.

Marathon a passion

I have always been active in sports, mainly Tennis and athletics. But never got into long distance running. It is only some 4 years back that I started stretching myself to limits. This was courtsey the Hasher group runs (http://www.bombayhash.com/) which I used to attend in Mumbai. Drinkers with a running problem. Thats how you describe a hasher.

Now I have done 4 half marathon in last 3 years and I am on the brink of moving on to the Full marathon. Probably in Mumbai marathon Jan 2007 or Delhi International Marathon, Feb 2007.

I normally follow a schedule which works around 30k-40k per week, 1 hour of swimming and some bit of Yoga. Yoga helps in strengthening limbs and back.

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The Hutch Delhi Half Marathon experience :

Reached del on 14th Oct mid-night, same flight as that of one Mr Dhoni. Early morning @ 6.45 am I was in JN stadium. The place was brimming with action. Weather was good for the run. I did not require any water till 12k. The most beautiful part of the run was when we turned from Raj Bhavan to India Gate road..... It was FAB... felt so proud of the architecture and aura around. I shall live to cherish that moment. But then this was also the toughest part of the run. There are no trees near the road and sun was direct on the face. Thats where I lost my time. But over all I managed my personal best of 2:05:07.

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In Nov 2006, I plan to do the Pune International Marathon 2006. They have this criterion where the runnner has to do 20k within 1:30, else they will not let you proceed beyond 20 k. There is no way I can do 20 k in 1:30 since my personal best is 2:05:07 in Delhi Hutch Half Marathon 2006. But thats fine with me. I atleast get to do 20k.