Done with the annual tradition of a pre-winter half marathon in Delhi – one of the most sought races thanks to its ‘gold label’ status. This was a race that gave me a motivation to take up distance running since I moved to Delhi 12 years ago. So, there was no way I was missing this.
Yes, I thought of skipping this event. This came after a little accident few weeks ago when i tripped while running in the dark on trails. Though I didn’t fall and avoided some nasty outcomes, the whole thing triggered an ever lingering glutes issues to a very painful situation. I couldn’t walk or sit properly for couple of days. The key last hard workouts leading to the race have been less than inspiring.
I knew that I won’t be able to better my personal best of 1:35. But really wanted to finish under 100 minutes.
The Crowded Start
The start of DHM has always been crowded, with so much pushing around at the start thanks to all waves mixing close to start.
This time, they decided to have a staggered start with every wave 5 min apart. That sound like a good idea with runners getting enough space. But no. I was wrong. Even with tight security, lot of runners managed to sneak into faster waves with A wave especially so crowded.
The gun went off and I found myself walking first few meters thanks to the crowd infront of me. And, I was asking someone why are people not running. Why were people not running. Who were those people just lining up the start just for the photos? So, started my race so annoyed already.
The Race
I knew from the first kilometer that I won’t be able to sustain a 4:40 pave throughout. Everything felt so tight and I was just moving! At the 6th km, I felt a sharp pain in the right glues and I decided to slow down. That was the most horrible feeling. But somehow managed to maintain a 4:50 pace throughout and finish under 1:42.
Considering how I was, I am still okay with this. There was no huge dip in the pace, it almost consistent from the 6th km to finish. Well, it is what it is. There is nothing much I could do on the day.
And, again a 3rd place in age category in a Procam race. This is my 4th age category podium in DHM/Mumbai Marathon – and all 3rd! I really need a 1st or 2nd now!
And, to the Next Goal
My next big race is going to be Boston Marathon. Before that I have a stopover at Malnad Ultra 50km – a race I promised to come back years ago. Time to rest, recover and get back to training!
Eat, Run, Live, Sleep, Repeat 
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