Running And Living Marathon and a Half!! Dec 2009 GGN

IG Police Sheel Madhur Holds up 6 year old Sonu Yadav who came 4th in the 5km run

Prakash and MAJOR at the start of the Marathon - Running it was tough and MAJOR (his dog) was dog tired at the end of it- He earned his gold medal too
Dr Ashis Roy ran his 99th marathon with us in Gurgaon

"Recognize your victories"
Joan Benoit Samuelson - American Champion Marathoner
5K, 10K, Half and Full Marathon finishers You are all winners - and we at Running and Living, Frito Lays and Pepsico applaud your achievement.


Many of you did your personal bests in terms of timing and several of you ran your farthest distance yet - congratulations! We couldn't have asked for more - great information on different aspects of running at the expo - on footwear from Reebok, on Yoga from Arun, on Running and inspiration - from Dr Ashis Roy, on Running Gear and last minute tips from Running And Living, on Nutrition and a Healthy heart from Quaker Oats, with a hot sample dose to get the process of cholesterol reduction started, before the runs on the weekend. Gatorade at each aid station for the half and full marathons made sure that all were properly hydrated and energised, and for those who needed the Lays, for additional salt replenishment, or just for a change, or just for fun, it was there, along with oranges, bananas and Glucose biscuits. The folks from Elemention kept us well hydrated and the Max Health Care medical staff did a stellar job of keeping us injury free. Hats off to teh Gurgaon Traffic Police as they not only kept all the traffic at bay and blocked the road off for the runners, but they actively cheered too.Our volunteers did a stellar job and all of us enjoyed being with you, and we hope you had a great time.
We had over 800 people participate in our weekend buffet of runs apart from some spectators to cheer runners on at a couple of points! Tons of folks came from the NCR of course and then Bhiwani, Rohtak, Sonepat, Allahabad, Muzzafarnagar, and then onwards from Chandigarh, Shimla, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune and even Dubai - to name a few. Course records were broken at will, in this 2nd edition of the Running And Living Marathon and a Half!!
6 year old Sonu Yadav from Manesar came 4th in the 5km open in an inredible time of 23 :18.
Dr Roy did his 99th marathon with an appropriate bib - "99 not out" in 6:39.
Our half marathon course record was set with a blazing 1:11:20 by Rakesh Sharma and the Full Marathon record was set at 2:59:22 by Pawan Kumar
The 1^st 5 places and results were as follows:

Running And Living 5km Run
Position Name Time
1^st Ram Singh 19 mins 36 secs
2^nd Manish Yadav 20 mins 46 secs
3^rd Manish Khosla 21 mins 50 secs
4^th Sonu Yadav 23 mins 18 secs
5^th Rudra Bhanu 26 mins 50 secs


Running And Living 10km Run

Position Name Time
1^st Sonu Sharma 37 mins
2^nd Sunil Sharma 37 mins 10 secs
3^rd Gautam Singh 38 mins 22 secs
4th Sandeep Yadav 40 mins 10 secs
5^th Francois Delannoy 45 mins 30 secs

Running And Living Half Marathon
Position Name Time
1^st Rakesh Sharma 1hr 11mins 20 secs new course record
2^nd Sudhir Singh 1 hr 11mins 45 secs
3^rd Ajeet Shukla 1 hr 13 mins 23 secs
4^th Anil Kumar 1 hr 14 mins 16 secs
5^th Rakesh 1 hr 16 mins 35 secs

Running And Living Marathon
Position Name Time
1^st Pawan Kumar 2 hrs 59 mins 22 secs new course record
2^nd Naresh Kumar 2 hrs 59 mins 30 secs
3^rd Gautam Singh 3 hrs 13 mins 26 secs
4^th Ajay Kumar Pal 3 hrs 13 mins 26 secs
5^th Jaswir Singh 3 hrs 40 mins 34 secs
Some comments froma few runners of the full marathon which we got in were:
“I feel like I could go on a few more miles” said Namburi and Ravi Parmeshwar, both from Cargill,at the finish line where both ran their first full marathon.

Prakash Gupta – Executive Director at Frito Lay, ran with his dog – Major, for the 3^rd time in a Running And Living endurance event – This time the full marathon. Both were beaming at the finish, where Major was also awarded the gold- finishers medal.
Tanvir Kazmi of Cadence running his 6^thmarathon with his 2^nd best timing at 4:48 said, “I could think of one line which differentiates this marathon from any other marathon in India - "The kind of runners support which the Running and Living marathon provides exceeds by far anything seen in any other marathon in India, even if you go as far as the Mumbai marathon and Delhi half marathon. Continuous supply of nourishment in the form of Gatorade, biscuits, chips and bananas is something you won't find anywhere else, and runners simply love it here."

Dr Ashis Roy, running his 99^th marathon said, ”This is the real marathon, for runners by runners, where every detail is planned and managed, with the runner at the centre”, after he finished in 6 hours and 39 minutes.
We had runners from Japan, the US, UK and France and Germany and Malaysia with us and that added to the flavour of this being a unifying experience - from Japan to Jhajjar, from America to Allahabad, from France to Faridabad and Germany to Gurgaon. We have many photographs for you to enjoy of the different runs
Check out over 1000 snaps at 5k/ 10K, Half and Full Marathon and much more at
If you have clicked some snaps - upload them onto Picasa or Flickr or whatever and send us the link by replying to this email so that we can share with all. Timings will be posted by Thursday
We however know we had opportunities for improvement on the 3rd day of action at the half and full marathon as we had a few volunteer drop outs, due to personal emergencies.as Zoobie and Anita manned the ends, Emily manned the middle and Rahul ran the course checking, as we shuffled, water and Gatorade and other supplies as required and some runners missed the hot Quaker Oats at Club Florence Post the runs, as they nursed their feet and cheered other runners at the finish point.
We would love to hear from you about opportunities for improvement - just let loose. We mean it!! We are all fellow runners and would appreciate your inputs.
We hope to get chip timing next time around, triple the number of participants, 6 times the volunteers for the marathon, and 10 times the fun.
Now that you are infected with the running virus - go infect everyone around you- we are glad that running is contagious!!
"They say you can't run away from your troubles. I say that you can"
John Bingham, Marathoner and writer

Best
From all the volunteers who enjoyed seeing you smile
ps - see you soon at our next runs in the NCR and beyond

A few learnings for life post a 75km run

I just ran a 75km run today in Bnagalore and am listing out a few, simple, home truths that came up to the fore ever so sharply, all over again today.

To Run long – you must train long

I had not run long distance in training and paid the price today, being humbled and forced to walk far more, than what I had planned to.

Cheering is key – when you cheer others, others start cheering you.

I cheered each runner as we passed each other and after some time, I heard and saw many more cheers for me which helped keep me going. When we were too tired closer to the finish, a thumbs up or a smile would do it. Smiling helps de stress – its such a simple tool we have been blessed with but don’t use it adequately. We think the world will collapse if we aren’t abs serious!!

No problem is so large that it is insurmountable

I never thought I could ever in my wildest dreams do a 75km run. Don’t knw what got me to think about it. I had not trained appropriately and 5 days prior to the run, had banged my left knee badly on the banister at home. Till this morning, I was constantly in 2 minds about whether I should run or not. And then I decided to get to the start line and see how it goes – km after km. Well at the end of 75km the pain in my left knee has disappeared. My knee has been praying to god that it would get transferred to another body!!!!

So I have to add – that if you have a knee problem – just run!!

Cheers to that!

Safer Long Distance Running

The last week has seen tragic and unfortunate deaths of half marathoners in Detroit, San Jose and in Mumbai - of reasonably seasoned, well trained runners.

It raises questions particularly for those seeking to push for the distance too soon and sometimes without adequate training and taking the several weeks schedules too lightly. This is the first thing that runners pushing the distances of half marathons and beyond need to adhere to.

The second would be to listen to your body before and during training and the race telling you to slow down and not push yourself as hard, there is always another race - unleass of course you are a champion athlete.

A great article in runnersworld.com with comments in from Cardiologist Paul Thomson highlights one of the less predictable risks of rupture of cholesterol plaque with severe stress, which upsets blood flow, and leads to clotting and high chances of death. These are things we need to be more educated about as we test the limits, as in any extreme sport.

He also states" The risk of dying from a heart attack goes up about 5 to 7 times during marathoning or other strenuous exercise. It's actually lowest among those who exercise the most and the most vigorously--it's may be double for them, while it's 30 to 50 times more dangerous for weekend warrior types who exercise infrequently. At the same time that you see these during-exercise risks, we also know that regular exercisers have about a 30 to 50 percent lower overall risk for heart attacks."

I would add - Mind over body is one issue that long distance runners focus on, but we must remember that tuning the mind into the body is as critical, though less talked about

So exercise is great but while we are under stress we need to be ever more aware too. The article is a must read.

Train well, listen to your body which should be a critical part of training, manage your diet and cholesterol especially, and you will run safer.

Have fun and get High while you run

Rahul

Long distance running - safely

There have been a few unfortunate deaths in the last week in Detroit, San Jose and Mumbai of fit, young long distance runners in good shape - collapsing and succumbing to a cardiac arrest. It has been both tragic for the families and friends concerned and worrying for the broader community of long distance runners.

These were not weekend runners seeking to push more and more and go beyond the limit but all seemed in reasonable and great shape.

More learnings may come out but some articles and news point to the fact that

we need adequate training and adequate rest.

get our comprehensive medical exams done once a year.

and then we need to 'listen to our body' as we push the limit and not go overboard. Cholesterol plaque as Dr Paul Thomson comments in a great article in runners world online, can be a hidden threat so diet, cholesterol management and a more holistic approach to a running lifestyle becomes more critical for those planning to push the limits.

The Most Beautiful Half Marathon in the World

 The 1st Shimla Running And Living Half Marathon - Oct 4th 2009

More pictures to view or download online at (taken by our photographers - Shalini, Rahul, Neerav and Rana)

http://picasaweb.google.co.in/sbaisiwala/ShimlaHalfMarathon2009?feat=email#

and http://www.flickr.com/photos/runningandlivingsnaps/sets/72157622527752026/

and http://www.flickr.com/photos/runningandliving/sets/72157622403122071/

and http://picasaweb.google.co.in/sbaisiwala/ShimlaHalfMarathon2009?feat=email#

If you have taken snaps and uploaded them online, send me the link which I will share with the group.

This is a long read with many photo links so sit back with your chai - and relive the expereince.

103 Half Marathoners ran in probably the most scenic half marathon in the world - The Shimla Running And Living Half Marathon on 4th October 2009. They raced down from the flagpole on the Ridge, past the Municipal Corporation office and Scandal point, to get to the steep downhill on the mall - past the Railway Board Building, and then Gorton's Castle, The Vidhan Sabha, to the Ambedkar Post office.

This downhill sprint was light in energy burn, but taxing on the knees, as positions got shuffled around a bit on the climb to Peterhof hotel, with a descent post the porch and then back again to the Ridge. This return, especially the last 2 km was really tough as the road got steeper, closer to Scandal Point and the Ridge.

Shri VC Pharka - Principal Secretary - Himachal Pradesh for Youth Services and Sports - flagged off the half marathon at exactly 7am and followed it up with flagging off the 6km run at 730am, which comprised over 250 runners. Many schools participated in this 6km run, as did a few people from outside the State. This too, was a more gruelling course than any other, most runners had experienced.

They too followed the same route to the Peterhof Hotel, but the return was tough. Climbing up past the Cecil Hotel and the Army Training Command and The DC's office and finally a steep climb upto the CTO and beyond Scandal point, brought the 6km runners to their destination, as the half marathoners whizzed by the juice corner, and down the steep 100m to the mall. They continues past Clarke's Hotel, the High Court and then up to Oak Over and Raj Bhawan. That was the second set of uphills on the route, which then flattened out a bit and continued along the scenic Forest Hill Road till Bedes Chowk.

Water and Electral were provided to the runners by the Team from Raid-De-Himalaya, as an ambulance stood by to help, as needed. The CMO had provided 3 ambulances at The Ridge, Peterhof and Bedes Chowk. Watchful eyes of vigilant doctors, looked for fatigued runners. The Traffic Police had heavily manned the section where the runners hit the Circular Road for a stretch of 50m. The Volunteers then beckoned the runners to take the left fork up towards Indus hospital, at which point most shook their heads in disbelief, because this was the steepest section of the route, going up towards Indus Hospital.

"Even after all these years, running continues to amaze me. Mostly in its ability to clarify - to make things OK and bring you back down to earth, even when things are insane. Especially when things are insane. "

Mark Remy, Executive Editor, runnersworld.c

Well things were insane at this point - and very humbling. Everyone was 'brought down to earth'

Running paces went down to half the speed and another 100m further turned into a brisk walk, and another 100m later, into a panting, laboured, walk. This was the time to enjoy the view of the forested track. Thank God for the Electral before the climb!

Then finally came flatter sections and a steep downhill towards Indira Gandhi Medical College, and a gradual slope through Lakkad Bazar nd back to the Ridge where there were a few cheering, and the by now familiar faces of the volunteers. It felt good to be on the Ridge and soak in the expanse, and then the view, which however was misted up. Perfect running weather though. 13km down and 8.1 to go.

So back downhill to the Peterhof, which for most was a welcome blessing, as breath and timing were both regained a bit, as the infamous Shimla monkeys scurried for cover. They had not seen so many humans running on the road, and they decided to stay off for a while. Water and Electral at the Scenic Peterhof where the hotel staff and volunteers were doing a great job of managing hydration, photographs, cheering and timing, along with the medical team which had an ambulance on the ready. Coming back up from Vidhan Sabha to the Ridge was another very tough section because of the steady uphill, which was reasonably severe and the runners were much more tired than on their first time around on that section. But the sight of Scandal point was a relief as the flat Ridge was nearby, even though not yet in sight.

Water and volunteers and cheering teams outside Ashiana, brought welcome relief. 2km and a bit to go.

A steep descent to the Mall and then past Indira Gandhi Sports Centre, The Clarkes and the High Court, got the runners to arrive at the 20.05 mark which was the turn around point. The last 1km was a matter of so near and yet so far, as the path was quite steep, the runners were exhausted, and several were walking at this stage. The final 100m up from the Mall to the Ridge was as steep as the Indus climb. Mixed feelings of - 'Oh my Gosh! 'to 'The end is near' and several variations which would be less diplomatic, rushed through each runners minds, as they reached the Ridge and got a gleaming Gold Medal on their neck, a packet of biscuits and then glugged some water as they cooled off and collected their certificates against the backgrop of the Church - Thank God it's over!!

Everyone was a winner. You did it!!

Each runner had experienced the beauty and history and the toughness that Shimla had to offer.

They had run the most beautiful half marathon in the world - The Runningandliving.com Half, in Shimla.

The Gold medal had the Church etched into it and each runner had this run, etched into his/her memory.

The Director General of Police, Himachal Pradesh - Shri Gill, gave away the plaques for the first 5 placed in the 2 runs and hoped that these runs would be a more regular feature both in Shimla and the rest of the State. He was accompanied by Director of Sports Mr Katwal, and Suman Rawat - India's champion marathoner, from the DYSS, who helped in coordinating permissions for the run.

Adesh Kumar ran an amazing 1:27:10 to set the course record. Definitely 20 minutes or so, slower than a flat marathon in the plains. He was closely followed by Sachin Kumar, 1 second behind him, who inturn had Shiv Singh, a second behind him. What a photo finish to a gruelling run.

Our 60 volunteers from all over the country did a stellar job of keeping things moving and making the experience memorable. Thanks.

A special thanks to Emily, Raji, Anita, Jagdish, Pooja, Amardeep and team from Shimla, Reyhan and team from S Delhi Polytechnic, Sanjay and team from Raid de Himalaya, Roshan Thakur and Team from Ashiana, SS Thakur and the team from Peterhof, Alice and team, and several others who did a stupendous job. This is what made this run special.

Shimla Runningandliving.com Half Marathon Desk clocks

You saw the clocks, and then it was a race against time after the finish, to catch your bus, train or plane connection. Many of you said you were interested in purchasing one or more - we can courier this to your address. Just email us at contactus@runningandliving.com

Your postal address and mobile

Number of clocks wanted

A cheque payable in Delhi for Rs 600/- per clock - all inclusive, favouring - Running And Living Infotainment Pvt. Ltd. mailed to 132 Vista Villas, Sector 46, Gurgaon 122003, Haryana

We are looking for someone to start running groups in Shimla and around?

Let us know if you run at least once a week and would like to lead a runningandliving.com running group in your neighbourhood

See you next October, each with another 10 friends and lets get Himachal Pradesh and India, running!

Before that - let's meet in Gurgaon on Dec 6th- for your personal best, at teh coolest marathon in the country - The Runningandliving.com Marathon and a Half!

Running in the most beautiful half marathon in the world

The breathtakingly beautiful Runningandliving.com Half Marathon in Shimla - Oct 4th

The weather was perfect - cool and mildly moist as the half marathoners ran in the mist. Those who had been on course walks for

acclimatization and orientation the previous 2 days, were well prepared for the challenges ahead. The Principal Secretary Youth Services and Sports, for Himachal Pradesh, Shri VC Pharka, flagged off the Half Marathon at exactly 730am. on 4th October 2009.

The runners started off slow and measured, to Scandal Point and then as the slope increased, so did their pace; a good way to get the first 2km over and done with (but the thought stuck - shucks I have to come back this way again, and one more time back up. Yikes!)

This was a run through Shimla's best - starting with the more historic parts of Shimla - via the Muncipal Corporation, The Railway Board Building, Gortons Castle, The Vidhan Sabha and then onwards to the scenic Peterhof Hotel.The climb to the porch of the Peterhof from the main road and then back up from the parking lot to the porch, was the first leveller, and there were many more to come. Here our partners - HPTDC, did a great job of managing the hydration point along with our volunteers

The PeterHof

The climb back up from the Cecil Oberoi to Scandal point was tough, but the runners were fresh, and after some quick hydration, they were back on their way, down the Mall Road, past Clarke's hotel and then onwards past the HIgh Court to the CM;s residence at OakOver.

Running In Baroda

MS University Campus Observatory
Sayaji Park
and the Palace Gate



Last week I had an opportunity to visit Baroda to meet some people who are planning to organise a half marathon there.
On my visit to the city after 2 decades, I found it had lots of green lungs and was not as congested and sprawling as many others, with a similar population. Reni George who manages our Baroda runningandliving.com running group took me around and familiarized me with the city - historic, educational and industrial.
Needless to say, we ran in many places and saw barely anyone else running, but there were a reasonable number of walkers.

Sayaji Park, Around the Palace Grounds and the MS University campus, are a must do for any runner visiting Baroda or for someone living in Baroda and wanting to start off.
For more on running in India, and getting started - check out www.runningandliving.com

Run - To throw your weight around

Last month - I ran in Tughlaqabad with a group of folks and I started chatting with one of them - Shivam, about why he was running. He was really fit at 70 kilos and what I thought would be small talk, literally floored me.

He told me he was 145 kgs earlier - I did not believe him! And then he told me he was 145kg exactly a year ago and that 'today' was his anniversary run. Totally incredible!! I asked him to email me his story and his pictures and here they are - they tell the story better than anyone else can. Read this and then check out the pictures of progress

"All I needed was to be free, to be free, to be free…

One Year earlier, I was 146 Kg when I first stepped onto a dusty, red dirt track in the Park looking for a way to shed the embarrassment that I'd felt most of my life.

At that time, I was the boy who ate until my stomach hurt, who slept like there was no sun-rise, who preferred to lie down rather than sit, whose favorite apparel brand was Plusss Size. I used to think that I could not go on and life was nothing but an awful song. I was stuck with a poor self-image.

That day, on the track, I felt like an Alien. At 5'7" and 146 Kg weight, I thought I didn't belong. I was full of doubt and I was cold. I was worried about what the future holds.

The night before I saw tears in my Father eyes because of his overweight son. I was rudely awakened by the rejected feelings that surrounded me that night. Somewhere the hurting must stop...and I was determined to take myself to the limit.

But I soon realized that it’s not going to be easy.

I said to myself - "take it easy and don’t look into the people eyes who were looking down at me." As I ran my first round of park, I found nothing broken, nothing burst, heartbeat steady. So I tried another. And another.

There were days when I felt like I got knocked down but I got up again. I Ran, I Swam, I Gymmed .I got support from my mother for dieting.

I ended up weighing 115 Kg within two months. It was then when I decided to meet this biggest challenge head on and not only overcome my obesity,but conquer it in such a way that I could never look back and say it disabled me. My heart was on fire, I had the strong belief that now no force on earth can stop me from achieving my dream. I fought with my weight by running, Gym, dieting just to kill that bloody fat to survive. I pushed myself until the end but never lost the grip on my weight loss mission.

Now I have found a joy that jumps over sadness. I have found a strength that stands like a mountain. Now I know the meaning of life. I'm leaning on the everlasting Fit life.

I‘ve achieved 70 Kg weight something that for me was once only a distant dream reserved for the world of miracles.

I have found, I've found Myself!

I am Running And Living"

Shivam Goyal

This is inspiring - many of us have a health issue or something that is holding us back, and have a story to tell, where running has made a difference. Go ahead and post your story. Inspire othrrs to change their lives.

Or email me with your story and I will spread it for you.

For more about the benefits of running -
http://runningandliving.com/running_living.html

Have fun on the run

Rahul Verghese

(an accidental runner)

Running in probably the most beautiful half marathon in the world

I have run marathons in various countries in 6 continents, and some half marathons, but last week, when I ran the course we have set for the Shimla Half Marathon, I found it breathtaking. Both literally because of the altitude and the gradient in parts, and figuratively because of the natural beauty of "The Queen of the Hills" and the historic buildings of "The Summer Capital of India"

Here is a pictorial view of the route - enjoy the run!!

Chandigarh gets Running And Living

Elemention CGA in Chandigarh was humming with activity from early May 17th at 5am onwards with volunteers putting out direction signs and getting water stops ready for the over four hundred participants from Chandigarh and around for the 1^st Runningandliving.com 5km and 10km runs in Chandigarh.

There were people who were young and old, from all walks of society, CEO’s, bureaucrats, businessmen. students and others – many a bit weary after having been up late – tuning in to the IPL scores and the election results. But all were now focused on running, in what is perhaps the prettiest city in the country for such an activity.

The support from the police and the administration was fantastic - At 5am when I was putting up the direction boards along the route there were smiling traffic police who were keen to know what the objective of the run was and where it started from so that they could pass on information to those who would ask them.

Fortis Ambulance and the doctors provided super support and we also had a talk from Dr Deepinder Singh on Running and the heart.

Reebok trainers provided information on feet and shoes with a discounted set of stocks available and we had Running and Living Water Bottle belts and running T shirts available on sale.

Well fun was the focus as we ran, and the 5km runners followed at 645am. Smiling, cheering and then shouting out to others was what added to the fun as various social barriers were breached. Running was doing something that the electioneering had not been able to do – it had brought people from all over, together, to have fun, and not even consider that there were any differences at all between them. Running is a great community builder.

The finishers then also got a first hand experience of Elemention, and a discount on membership. Several said they had fun and keenly enquired about the next run, running clubs in different parts of India and more - check out running groups at information on running groups

Spread the word and lets get India running!

Elemention CGA in Chandigarh was humming with activity from early May 17th at 5am onwards with volunteers putting out direction signs and getting water stops ready for the over four hundred participants from Chandigarh and around for the 1st Runningandliving.com 5km and 10km runs in Chandigarh.
There were people who were young and old, from all walks of society, CEO’s, bureaucrats, businessmen. students and others – many a bit weary after having been up late – tuning in to the IPL scores and the election results. But all were now focused on running, in what is perhaps the prettiest city in the country for such an activity.

The support from the police and the administration was fantastic - At 5am when I was putting up the direction boards along the route there were smiling traffic police who were keen to know what the objective of the run was and where it started from so that they could pass on information to those who would ask them.
Fortis Ambulance and the doctors provided super support and we also had a talk from Dr Deepinder Singh on Running and the heart.
Reebok trainers provided information on feet and shoes with a discounted set of stocks available and we had Running and Living Water Bottle belts and running T shirts available on sale.
Well fun was the focus as we ran, and the 5km runners followed at 645am. Smiling, cheering and then shouting out to others was what added to the fun as various social barriers were breached. Running was doing something that the electioneering had not been able to do – it had brought people from all over, together, to have fun, and not even consider that there were any differences at all between them. Running is a great community builder.


The finishers then also got a first hand experience of Elemention, and a discount on membership. Several said they had fun and keenly enquired about the next run, running clubs in different parts of India and more - check out running groups at information on running groups

A stroke of luck

We got coverage in current issue of THE WEEK magazine and I was delighted and surprised to see my picture on the cover - Here is the cover and the link to the cover story on various people who have made a dramatic career switch.

The most beautiful marathon in the world - an ultra actually

Energising yet humbling – A Phenomenal Ultra Marathon Experience

Two Oceans Ultra Marathon – Cape Town – The most beautiful in the world

A marathon is a humbling experience, especially for a non athlete like myself. Yesterday was no different as I realized how asymmetrical I was with the left leg shorter than the other by 1.5cm and stuffed with an extra insole, my right foot over-pronating (or rolling inwards) more than my left, and both being as flat footed as they come. The 2 Ocean Marathon 56km Ultra Marathon here in CapeTown, S Africa was humbling in more ways than one. Seeing 6500 people at the start line of this incredible distance, the spectacular views of the Indian, and Atlantic oceans from sea level and from cliffs, seeing Table mountain loom over the area around Cape Town, and see the thousands of people both volunteering and lining the streets as spectators, to cheer, was energizing, all along the 56km ultra marathon distance.

The weather was just right, I had made some acquaintances at the 5km International Friendship run the previous morning where I ran with the Indian flag, being one of 2 Indians who had registered for the ultra- unfortunately did not get to meet the other, and hope he or she did come and run.  6500 pairs of feet pounded away in the dark (13000 had started the half marathon 25 minutes earlier), including those of a one legged runner whom I ran with for a while; very inspiring. 

The only other place where I had the chance to be similarly inspired was at the Rio De Janeiro marathon some years ago.

White clouds like a tablecloth on top of Silvermine mountain, was a pretty sight as we carried onwards and reached the Indian Ocean at Muizenberg around the 15km point. The blue waters were as scenic as they come, as we traversed across to Kalk Bay and the town of Fish Hoek a bit of sweat now pouring down our faces as it started getting a bit warmer but drying off fast with the light breeze. Then came the few kilometers going across towards the base of Chapman drive and the Atlantic waters. Chapman drive has been closed to vehicular traffic for a bit, due to rock falls and land slip danger. 

The views were breathtaking, but so was the climb – had to do a brisk walk most of the way up to conserve energy as we had just about crossed the half way mark at 3 hrs and a minute and the climbs were only just beginning.

2 Oceans had really only just begun!! I ran with Justice from a local club and I told him that he should power on – ‘else Justice delayed would be Justice denied’. Well I don’t know about him but I felt the puns lighten my load and add a bit of spring to my stride, as I stopped at water points to take pix of people, the views and to cheer folks on. I told Moses to part the waters so that I could take a short cut across 2 spurs along the bay, and so on…

I was enjoying myself as we crossed the high point on Chapman’s drive 

and began the steady descent towards Hout Bay. The dreaded climb was over and behind us but my overall pace was reducing significantly as I crossed the full marathon point at 42.2km. Now there was a different challenge as the 1000+ of us stragglers were being cheered on and encouraged to finish within the 7 hr cut off, else no certificate, no medal and perhaps no finish at all. That prospect was scary – I had not toiled like crazy, missed my elder daughter’s 16^th birthday, braved all odds to land up in Cape Town and run past Chapman’s Peak to end with a ‘Did Not Finish’ against my name.  

AND the toughest part – 

the scenic but way tougher climb up Constantia Neck was yet to come. .

Brisk walking at 6kmph was all I could manage going up the 3 odd kilometers of the climb – it was a bit steep, and the treadmill running on an incline of 5% did not train me enough for this one. So the walking continued, as we passed through ever scenic wooded areas and banking roadways. ‘Come on, you guys are looking great and will surely make it within the time’ cheered on the spectators lining the road, but the nervousness was palpable as some fell behind, and a couple broke down and sobbed. I saw a few socks ahead of me bloodied and I was glad to see myself in good shape despite the extra insole in my left shoe. 

Constantia neck was finally crossed and a few folks had dropped out with cramps – I did not have any signs of cramping but, you could never say never with cramps – docs still cant really assign a specific cause – could be too much water, or too little, a bit too much of exertion, not enough flexibility and stretch in the muscle and…..

I banished the though and then with 3kms to go, had some volunteers take my snap next to a sign which said – ‘So beautiful, It hurts!’

Now I wasn’t sure how much time was left because it had taken about 3-4 minutes for me to reach the start line in the morning, post the gun going off, so I had around 25mins to do the last 3km, so I had to run and couldn’t just walk. So run I did, and finally reached the finish line, in the fashionable Newlands area, outside the Institute of Sports Medicine, at 6:51 according to the clock. I had made it and had received another medal – my 29^th, and this one got me to the 6^th Continent. I had been humbled again.

I wait for the day when there will be 500 Indians crossing the finish line of this lovely and gruelling run, with many more running 5km distances in our country as a matter of routine, getting us to be a healthier, more community minded and a more optimistic society, saying in each heart – I can!!

But I know if I at 48, with the recent knowledge that one leg is shorter than the other, overpronating like crazy and more.. can get hooked and enjoy the highs of life, anyone can.

Rahul S Verghese

The most beautiful marathon in the world

Energising yet humbling – A Phenomenal Ultra Marathon Experience

Two Oceans Ultra Marathon – Cape Town – The most beautiful in the world

Rahul S Verghese

A marathon is a humbling experience, especially for a non athlete like myself. Yesterday was no different as I realized how asymmetrical I was with the left leg shorter than the other by 1.5cm and stuffed with an extra insole, my right foot over-pronating (or rolling inwards) more than my left, and both being as flat footed as they come. The 2 Ocean Marathon 56km Ultra Marathon here in CapeTown, S Africa was humbling in more ways than one. Seeing 6500 people at the start line of this incredible distance, the spectacular views of the Indian, and Atlantic oceans from sea level and from cliffs, seeing Table mountain loom over the area around Cape Town, and see the thousands of people both volunteering and lining the streets as spectators, to cheer, was energizing, all along the 56km ultra marathon distance

The weather was just right, I had made some acquaintances at the 5km International Friendship run the previous morning where I ran with the Indian flag, being one of 2 Indians who had registered for the ultra- unfortunately did not get to meet the other, and hope he or she did come and run.  6500 pairs of feet pounded away in the dark (13000 had started the half marathon 25 minutes earlier), including those of a one legged runner whom I ran with for a while; very inspiring. The only other place where I had the chance to be similarly inspired was at the Rio De Janeiro marathon some years ago.

White clouds like a tablecloth on top of Silvermine mountain, was a pretty sight as we carried onwards and reached the Indian Ocean at Muizenberg around the 15km point. The blue waters were as scenic as they come, as we traversed across to Kalk Bay and the town of Fish Hoek a bit of sweat now pouring down our faces as it started getting a bit warmer but drying off fast with the light breeze. Then came the few kilometers going across towards the base of Chapman drive and the Atlantic waters. Chapman drive has been closed to vehicular traffic for a bit, due to rock falls and land slip danger. The views were breathtaking, but so was the climb – had to do a brisk walk most of the way up to conserve energy as we had just about crossed the half way mark at 3 hrs and a minute and the climbs were only just beginning.

2 Oceans had really only just begun!! I ran with Justice from a local club and I told him that he should power on – ‘else Justice delayed would be Justice denied’. Well I don’t know about him but I felt the puns lighten my load and add a bit of spring to my stride, as I stopped at water points to take pix of people, the views and to cheer folks on. I told Moses to part the waters so that I could take a short cut across 2 spurs along the bay, and so on…

I was enjoying myself as we crossed the high point on Chapman’s drive and began the steady descent towards Hout Bay. The dreaded climb was over and behind us but my overall pace was reducing significantly as I crossed the full marathon point at 42.2km. Now there was a different challenge as the 1000+ of us stragglers were being cheered on and encouraged to finish within the 7 hr cut off, else no certificate, no medal and perhaps no finish at all. That prospect was scary – I had not toiled like crazy, missed my elder daughter’s 16^th birthday, braved all odds to land up in Cape Town and run past Chapman’s Peak to end with a ‘Did Not Finish’ against my name.  AND the toughest part – the scenic but way tougher climb up Constantia Neck was yet to come. .     The Indian Flag at the international friendship run      Sign on the way up Constantia – near the top

Brisk walking at 6kmph was all I could manage going up the 3 odd kilometers of the climb – it was a bit steep, and the treadmill running on an incline of 5% did not train me enough for this one. So the walking continued, as we passed through ever scenic wooded areas and banking roadways. ‘Come on, you guys are looking great and will surely make it within the time’ cheered on the spectators lining the road, but the nervousness was palpable as some fell behind, and a couple broke down and sobbed. I saw a few socks ahead of me bloodied and I was glad to see myself in good shape despite the extra insole in my left shoe. Constantia neck was finally crossed and a few folks had dropped out with cramps – I did not have any signs of cramping but, you could never say never with cramps – docs still cant really assign a specific cause – could be too much water, or too little, a bit too much of exertion, not enough flexibility and stretch in the muscle and…..

I banished the though and then with 3kms to go, had some volunteers take my snap next to a sign which said – ‘So beautiful, It hurts!’

Now I wasn’t sure how much time was left because it had taken about 3-4 minutes for me to reach the start line in the morning, post the gun going off, so I had around 25mins to do the last 3km, so I had to run and couldn’t just walk. So run I did, and finally reached the finish line, in the fashionable Newlands area, outside the Institute of Sports Medicine, at 6:51 according to the clock. I had made it and had received another medal – my 29^th, and this one got me to the 6^th Continent. I had been humbled again.

I wait for the day when there will be 500 Indians crossing the finish line of this lovely and gruelling run, with many more running 5km distances in our country as a matter of routine, getting us to be a healthier, more community minded and a more optimistic society, saying in each heart – I can!!

Rahul S Verghese