Delhi’s biggest running event was finally back after 2 years of pandemic break. It arrived in all new form – new sponsor, new colours, new logo and new slogan!
As the most sought after among the short distances, races in India, we expected huge crowds and excitement. But, I found the whole thing a bit underwhelming! The number of participants were less – of course many were not fit enough as most of them took a ‘pandemic break’ for running or people were busy with other fall running events elsewhere. This also caused a dip in the excitement level.
Start corral -i always started from B and usually it is crowded and no space to move. This year it was so empty we could do proper warm-ups inside. Hopefully we can have the crowds back next year!
Coming after Comrades and injury, i was asked to take this race easy. I have run DHM after ultras and other races; but i tried to give 100% during the race, because it’s a race!
However, on the day, I really was not in a mood for race and ending up finishing at 1:55+. The plan was to finish under it and during the last 5-6km or so, i was certain i am going to miss the target. But the feeling of ‘racing’ has not kicked in and i went on with my easy pace. I have not done any speedwork after Comrades and my legs couldn’t kick faster!
After the post-race clicks and chats and evening party, when i looked back, i was disappointed. I could have at least given it a shot. I could have raced a bit. But my fear of injuries and further niggles held me back!
At this moment, i am trying to forget the whole thing and get back to training!
Eat, Run, Live, Sleep, Repeat 
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