Thursday 15 September 2016

A new article to read for Satara Hill Marathon

Strategise for Satara Success -  You don't have to be a winner to win

The concept that Winners are the first across the line is a fallacy in running:  Quite simply: you don't have to be a winner to win!

Winning can be as simple as achieving a performance that matches your ability at the time of the competition: 

It is important to recognise that winning is a combination of two aspects: - Being as fit as you can for the date of the competition and secondly approaching the competition in a way that takes you to your best potential performance on the day. 
We have no control over who is in the competition, whether that be at Olympic level or at the local club 10km, but we have total control and responsibility for how we perform on the day. 

If, for instance, you were selected for a club or provincial team, to a major event you have a responsibility to the people you are representing to get as well prepared as you possibly can, given your resources, in time for that competition, and that should include NOT racing other events that could detract from your performance on the chosen competition.  You fail in this, (and let people down), if you are injured or over-trained by the time race day comes around. 

The majority of runners do not have the challenge of representing, (being responsible to), others, but if you truly want to achieve that goal, you have the same level of responsibility to yourself! In many cases that can be a harder taskmaster!

But your goal is not guaranteed even if you get to race morning in the best ever condition physically and mentally! 

It is so easy to ‘stuff up’ your race performance by going in without any strategy or battle-plan that will ensure you achieve your best performance for the conditions.

Sunday’s PNB Satara Hills Half Marathon is a grueling event and there is absolutely nothing you can do over the next  few days that will improve your level of fitness. That level of fitness determines the absolute best time you can do in the race, and this should be your starting point for a Strategy to Success.

It is one thing to run a race on the flat where it is easy to see that even effort is basically even  or consistent pace.  For instance a 10km in 50 minutes requires the runner to run 5 minutes per km and although it is best to start the first couple of kilometres around 5-10 seconds slower, and the last 3-4km slightly faster, the basic principle of even pace and effort are obvious. 

This is not the case in an undulating race or the desperately steep climb and earth plummeting drop of a race like the Satara Hills Half Marathon that climbs, (and then falls), 380 metres in each half of 10.5 kilometres!!!

The amount of effort to run up a hill depends on the slope of a hill. Clearly running at 5 minutes per km on the flat requires less effort than running 5 minutes per km up a 3% gradient and so for the same, or equal effort, the pace needs to drop.  

By contrast less effort is used to run 5 minutes per km on a downhill.  Therefore for the same amount of effort (energy) a runner can run perhaps 15 or 20 seconds per km faster. 

The best times are run with even effort so we need to determine a good strategy for our target time, which you will remember from above has already been set by out fitness. 

[The table shown gives an indication of the time you can do on Satara Hills compared to your current 10km and 21km time on the flat]

This means splitting the race up into ‘landmark’ points, (or key km marks), and allocating a time that we should take to cover each of the sections allowing for the uphill and downhill of that section. 

This has already been done for you for the PNB Satara Hills Half Marathon with pacing bands for each of nine Time Goals.  This information will be available at the Expo / Registration 

So lets summarise the basic strategy:
• Commence by making sure you have warmed up prior to the race. 
• The first kilometre is one of the steepest in the uphill climb so do not be afraid to take it a bit easier, and even a short 30 second walk while you handle the crowds is a good thing 
• Although the incline eases off for the next 3km be aware of your effort level and don't get carried along by others who are going too fast. Punctuate the run with walks but at 1-2km intervals and keep them short to 30-45 seconds 


• The section from 4km to 7km varies from very steep to “ridiculously” steep, which is of course the attraction and challenge of this event, so be prepared to mix walking and running, using perhaps 1 minute run and 30 seconds walk, or even 30 seconds run 30 seconds walk on the really steep sections.

• From 7km it is a bit easier but there is a final steep section of about 500m before the 10km that requires similar respect.


• Your objective must be to get to the turn round point with energy still in your legs and not having over-exerted yourself.  If you have done too much you will not have the legs to run downhill and then your time is lost.. Remember it is better to have gone slower than faster to half way because you can always use any extra energy on the steep down hills to get even faster, but if there is nothing left the downhill is of little assistance.
• Many runners forget the two relatively gentle but surprisingly long climbs on the way back to 11km and roughly 13km.  Be prepared to slow your pace a bit there, before heading downhill from 14km 
• The key to a good time now lies with the downhill running style. The idea is to lean forward until you are at right angles to the slope of the hill and your feet are landing virtually underneath so you roll down the hill using maximum gravity. If you feel like you are going to fall on your face you have the correct lean! ☺ 

• With 18.5km done the route flattens and it means your pace will drop, and it feels as though you have ground to a halt but if you simply relax you can keep the required effort and even ease off a bit for the couple of undulations before you reach the 19km mark. 
• From 19km its virtually downhill all the way and this is where you then commit all remaining energy to running with as good a downhill style as possible – keeping in mind that final 900m is on the very steep section you started on earlier in the morning. 

It’s important to honour your responsibility to yourself to achieve your best, but equally its vital to enjoy the race on Sunday !

That final 40 metre sprint in from the gate is your chance to celebrate your WIN – a win based on strategising your Satara Success! 


Written by Coach Norrie  - see FB pages Norrie Williamson  or OM Virtualcoach Norrie

Sunday 29 May 2016

Comrades Marathon 29th May 2016 : My Story – My Way – My Vision





Pietermartizburg to Durban ( 89 km Down Run )

एक कवि की , एक सुन्दर कविता जिसके अर्थ काफी गहरे हैं........

मैंने हर रोज  जमाने को  रंग बदलते देखा है , उम्र के साथ  जिंदगी को , ढंग बदलते  देखा है  !!
वो, जो चलते थे - तो शेर के चलने का , होता था गुमान , उनको भी पाँव उठाने के लिये सहारे को तरसते देखा है !!

जिनकी  नजरों की  चमक देख सहम जाते थे लोग , उन्हीं नजरों को बरसात की तरह , रोते देखा है  !!

जिनके  हाथों के  जरा से  इशारे से , टूट जाते थे पत्थर , उन्हीं हाथों को पत्तों की तरह , थर थर काँपते देखा है .. !!

जिनकी आवाज़ से,कभी बिजली के कड़कने काहोता था भरम, उनकेहोठों पर भी जबरन,चुप्पी का ताला लगा देखा है .. !!

ये जवानी , ये ताकत ,ये दौलत ,सब कुदरत की  इनायत है , इनके रहते हुएभी  इंसान को बेजान हुआ देखा है ... !!

अपने आज पर , इतना ना  इतराना मेरे  यारों , वक्त की धारा में  अच्छेअच्छों को , मजबूर हुआ देखा है .. !!!

कर सको तो किसी को खुश करो , दुःख देते तो हजारों को देखा है  


You all must be surprised that what is my purpose of sharing the above poetry here ???? But  I must tell you that some creativity resemble the true fact about Life & if we are able to get the true message from it and also adopt it in our lives then nothing can be much better then this . My heart felt Thanks to the poet of the poetry above .

Without taking much time of you all would like to share my experience of  My Second Comrades Marathon as people say that I write very lengthy & in full detail . But my dear friends when the run itself is of 12 Hours , plus the preparation for the run , where we have given several hours of training , travelling from Surat to Durban , then again travelling to reach the start point & after the 12 Hours the feeling , so how can I just sumup in short .  Either I should also write one or two paragraphs with vote of Thanks & complete it . But my purpose of sharing has always been to inspire people to adopt this beautiful sport called RUNNING .  

Running is a sport which I love at it’s best . Although as many of you know that I had started running long distance after Surat Night Marathon 2014 ( Half Marathon ) but had never thought that will be running a Full Marathon so how can I think of running an Ultra !!!! ( This also I came to know after long time that what is an ULTRA ? ) But the whole scenario changed or should say that My Life has changed after running & participating in the Surat Night Marathon , 2014 .  

In our lives if we look back , we see that when we were child then we had an innocent friend circle ,  then again it has been changing from our schooling days, to our college life , then to our professional lives and till present . Very few friends continue to remain till the end of our lives or can say from start to present . If anyone has so I would regard him one of the luckiest person as having thousands of friends but having the same friend for many years is the biggest asset . Such is also in the case of our relatives – Relatives are same but with time the warmth in the relation changes . I don’t know about you all but it is my personal experience which has taught me to remain calm in every situation ( or in Hindi we can say  सम की स्थिति ) . If there is a favorable situation I never get too excited & if it is not a favorable one then also not  too depressed . I always try to live in present . Whatever happens is for good. 

I still remember that after Surat Night Marathon in February 2014 , when I had focused to run a Full Marathon without any guidance & was practicing for it then many of my near & dear ones were continuously telling me to run less as it was not advisable . The culture of our Surat City at that time was to run 15 or 16 km in practice  for a Half Marathon & 32 to 35 km for a Full Marathon in practice . I was never a very bright student in my schooling days but as I grew up & entered into my professional life the total concept & approach towards it changed into a practical one .

I always remember the story of Shri Vivekanand which I would like to share here . In an exam there was written, answer any six questions out of the ten questions . Vivekanandji wrote the answers of all the questions & wrote “ Check any six ” . Such should be the confidence in doing any work . It was on 11th July 2014 when I ran my first Full Marathon in practice , then the second on 13th July & then again the third on 15th July ( It was all Alone as at that time I used to run all alone ) .  My concept is clear that to appear for a paper of 100 marks , the preparation should be of  110 to 120 marks so it will be easy to score during your exam .

Such is also in the case of running long distances or any other thing which we do in our lives. If we start running 21 to 25 km then 21 km becomes easy & for 42 km  try running 42 to 45 km . On 16th November 2014 ran my 50 km Run in practice & in this also was perhaps  the first one to do so in Surat , in practice .  Just like in exams if we prepare for only 80% then for rest 20% we in need of help or just try to reply vaguely , such is also in case of running as when the preparation is only of 15 to 16 km or 32 to 35 km then it becomes very tough to cover those last km & gives us a feeling it to be a herculean task . Many of you with such type of preparation must have gone through this or should say still facing this type of problem. 

I had been running in capris & cotton or hosiery t-shirts but adopted dry fit t-shirts , shorts after I came to know the benefits of these while running . I am Thankful to those friends who had given me the right advice at that time , as before that I had many times faced the problem of rashes on body . Had I not adopted this then it would have been nearly impossible to run for such long hours . 


I have to share here some glimpses of my finishing  Comrades 2015  as without the glimpses of the last year my attempting it for the second year in succession ,  it would be impossible to carry forward to my this attempt of Comrades 2016 . Still remember one more episode that I was attending a party before I was to go for Comrades 2015 then a friend of mine introduced to an already known  renowned businessman from Surat . When that friend told him that I was going for a 87 km run the intelligent renowned businessman told आपने अपना Insurance वगैरह तो करवा लिया है ना ? क्या पता आप वहाँ से वापस आओ या न आओ | Although I was going alone but I accepted it as a challenge which helped me to cross the finish line & when I came back & when we met he Congratulated me & I told him मैं सही सलामत आ गया हूँ और मुझे Insurance की भी ज़रुरत नहीं पड़ी |He was in no position to reply back & arrogancy was  at  it’s best , as nor did he say that ,”  He was sorry for whatever he said .” Nothing can be done as mostly people are like this only & they will never be sorry for their mistakes .  My purpose of sharing here is , that people will just make fun of whatever you do as they themselves are not in a position to do so . So never get depressed or demotivated . Always try to build a fort ( not only house ) from the stones which people throw at you.

यह आप पर है , कि आप मुश्किल हालात में बुरा बनना चाहते हो
  या उनसे सीखकर मज़बूत होना चाहते हो | ”

From a Half Marathoner to a Full Marathoner,  then finishing a Comrades within 15 months since I started running long distance was really amazing & unbelievable,  and for me it was just like a dream which I had never dreamt of . For Comrades 2015 Shri Kalpeshbhai Jain had inspired me to register for it & am indeed Thankful to him as he had shown me a path which I had never ever thought of !!!! . I must say that I will always be Thankful to Shri Kalpeshbhai for guiding me to do Comrades . He himself has been registering for Comrades since last three years but due to some unavoidable circumstances has not been able to take a start for it . My wish is that we run Comrades together in the near future & at the earliest . 


After I finished last year & came back there was a felicitation program kept on the farm house of Shri Amitbhai Gajjar where several runner friends were present . I had shared my experience of Comrades 2015 . People were very much inspired that when a person like me can do a Comrades then they too can . I had told one thing repeatedly that don't go all alone but take along your running buddy with you so that you don't feel lonely not only during the Comrades RUN but in practice runs , travel & stay for Comrades . 


Last year also I had the greatest opportunity of having  the true  guidance of how to Run at Comrades from one of the greatest Comrades runner from India - Shri Satishbhai Gujaran ( Now 7 times Comrades Bronze Medalist since last 7 years in succession ) . This year too we were grateful that we had the opportunity and have trained under his guidance . He is such a humble person who came all the way from Mumbai to train us & ran 65 km with us sharing his experience which were very useful for all of us at Comrades . 

  
Shri Satishbhai Gujaran had already made our arrangements of a 15 seater Bus which was to take us from Durban Airport to Hotel , to Start point at Peitermaritzberg & return back to Durban Airport . 

Myself ,  Sarveshbhai Gupta , Rajivebhai Valadra, Dhruvbhai Trivedi, Nipunbhai Jindal , Anilbhai Mandviwala , Deepakbhai Mundra , Sureshbhai Dakhara , Ashishbhai Kapadiya & Rajivbhai Sheth had practiced together several times for Comrades whether it was on Flat Road , Flyover Repeats or Dudhani practice runs. So everyone was familiar with each other’s form , strength & weaknesses . 


Reaching Start Point - Durban to Pietermaritzburg
We started around 3:00 AM in the morning from Durban to Pietermaritzburg and had reached therearound 3:50 AM . So we had ample time . The weather was very chilled as expected & everyone was fully covered with full jacket or plastic covers  & had hand gloves too . Excitement was at it's peak for everyone ,  as representing our country in an international event & that too so far for our country - Again a dream which many of us would never have dreamt of . Although we all are amateur runners & not professional , who are already engaged in several other professions in our lives & then also to take out time for Running , can only be possible by Gods Grace . To participate & be on the start line of an International Event where more than 20000 runners from more than 60 countries participate every year since last 91 years is a big-big thing . I was feeling very-very  happy  as last year I was all alone & this year there were in total 16 participants from our city of Surat – Indeed one of the Proudest Moment for All of us . 

Even back home at Surat , all our well wishers just to encourage had participated from midnight to 6 AM in the morning by way of running , cycling , walking etc. according to IST & send us the good wishes in form of videos & photographs . Such is the spirit of Surtis . Never have ever heard of such a nice gesture just to motivate their friends who were miles away from home , made us  feel that whether they were not present with us at that very time physically but were in spirits . Hats off & a Big Salute to all of them for this,  as these are the precious moments which will remain throughout our lives. " Time is the most precious thing in Life which once spent cannot be earned back so we must always give full respect to those who gives us time as he or she has given the most precious thing which cannot be earned back . "



We had a simple plan to maintain a speed of  around 8.5 km per hour so that we would finish it in about 10:30 hrs . This was a doable task & on which we had mutually agreed upon. We must always keep some time in hands as if there are any unavoidable circumstances then we must have ample time to get out of it. As Ashishbhai is a very fast runner & he was in Group B he had a plan to run on his own . The Grouping in the Comrades are done according to the individuals finish time of a Full Marathon which has to be completed within 5 hours then only we can qualify to take part and this is to be qualified every year. Anilbhai ( G ) , Rajivbhai , Sureshbhai & Deepakbhai      ( H ) were in other groups but Deepakbhai was lucky enough to sneak through in our Group ( F ) . Amitbhai Jaju , Preetyben Khurana were also in Group F .  As this race is from Gun time to Gun time so the people think that the runners who are ahead have an advantage but I think that in a twelve hours race 10 minutes hardly matters but if you are a much slow runner & you have a bad day then seconds also matter ,  else we have to accept this challenge & be prepared for it every time we participate in Comrades . These are simple rules which every individual has to follow. We started well & the day before Satishbhai had told to run slow & easy in first half so were going according to that plan .


I along with Dhruvbhai , Nipunbhai , Sarveshbhai , Rajivebhai & Deepakbhai were moving along well in the chilled weather . One more thing to share here that when we practice in toughest of conditions then it really becomes very easy & enjoyable when we get the favorable one . The crowd support is just amazing as usual & it has been the trademark of this event Since years . The cheering & applauding during the whole route just keeps us on our toes . People are selfless as they keep on cheering & applauding . As we were running in the Team India T-shirt the slogan was more or less common throughout the route by the cheerful people who were waiting for their friends & relatives or had just come to encourage each & every participant who crossed them but for us it was   " Come on India , Well Done , Keep Going . " Once more felt that running in the same T-shirt not only shows unity amongst us but we are easily traceable in the thousands . Even the people calling you with your name which is written on your Bib gives a feel that the person knows you . It is definitely a personalized feel as during running someone calls you & you immediately turn & see that who was there !!!! 


I had set 12 hourly alarms in my mobile starting from 5:25 AM then 6:30 AM , 7:30 AM & then accordingly till 5:30 PM to make it easy to be updated that this much time is completed . I had started my watch & sports tracker app 5 minutes in advance that is instead of 5:30 AM it was started at 5:25 AM just to keep ahead of the cut-off time & maintain a constant speed .

" Don’t watch the clock ; Do what it does. Just Keep Going . "

Last year I was totally unaware & let me tell you all one more thing that I was about to miss the gate of 70.7 km at LION PARK by a whisker .  Cut-off time was 9:30:00 hrs & I crossed this gate in 9:29:49 hrs  luckily just by 11 seconds before the cut-off  time last year . This I found out when I was comparing my 2015 & 2016 run . I had also kept the sheet of all cut-off on my mobile screen as favourites so it can be easily accessible .  
        A Goal without a Plan is just a Wish


The first hour was very good as we had easily completed around 8.5 km in 1:01:27 hours & were approaching towards Polly Shortts . Enjoying each other's company we all were moving ahead. As there were more than 14000 runners running together it was looking as if there was a sea of people all around . When we used to see from bottom to top then from top to bottom it was all the same . We were to make way from this sea of runners but there was nothing to worry about as we knew that this will spread up after some time as the day progresses everyone will move ahead at his or her pace .  

कोहरे से एक अच्छी बात सीखने को मिली , कि जब जीवन में कोई रास्ता न दिखाई दे रहा हो तो बहुत दूर तक देखने की कोशिश व्यर्थ है,धीरे-धीरे एक-एक कदम चलते चलो रास्ता खुल जायेगा



CUT-OFF NO. : 01  ( LION PARK – 16.52 km)

As we were moving ahead we met an Indian couple whom Nipunbhai had met a day before & they too were very excited to meet us . It really gives a proud feeling when you meet your fellow countrymen in another country . After sometime Pranavbhai came running from the Group H . He was moving very fast & at a very good pace. We all greeted each other & he moved ahead . We were not in a hurry & were following the plan to conserve energy for the second half. We were not able to trace Dhruvbhai & Nipunbhai as they also had moved forward. So from the team of six we were four now . Then suddenly after sometime we saw that Deepakbhai was also not with us. Now we were reduced to a team of three. Rajivbhai Sheth also came from behind & we started running together . It was a pleasant surprise to see Rajivbhai at that time & it gave a very good feeling . We were nearing our First Cut-off at Lion Park of 2:40:00 hrs & the time of the day 8:10 AM . We crossed this in 02:02:07 hrs at 7:31:18 AM so we were ahead here by 0:38:42 minutes. Here now the average speed had dropped to 8.2 km per hour but energy level was on a high. As the atmosphere was chilled so I thought to continue just like that & had drank very less water . I felt later that this was a blunder mistake as it has nothing to do with weather & we must keep ourselves hydrated . Never be overconfident.

We had completed first 21 km in 2:30:42 hrs which was perfect & we were bang on target . Rajivbhai Sheth had moved ahead . Now again we were a team of three . Suddenly Sarveshbhai started limping as he had pain in his calf then we stopped & he did some stretching & then again we started running . In Comrades or in general it is a principle that no one stops for anyone but how can we leave our friend in such a situation & move ahead .
दरिया बनकर किसी को डुबाना बहुत आसान है , मगर ज़रिया बनकर किसी को बचायें तो कोई बात बने 

Now the weather was also changing from Chilled to a bit hot in the sunlight  . We had already started to feel that from now onwards we will have to fight ourselves out in this sunlight too . Here as several other runners I too gave my beloved jacket ( Need to say this , as had ran several kilometer wearing this in rainy season ) gave to a child sitting besides the road who was collecting from others too . I gave my hand gloves also to him & saw a smile on his face & I too replied with a smile . “ Smile is the best language to communicate in this world & it costs nothing . “  As was moving ahead with rising temperature one more thought came in my mind –
“ जिस सूरज का सर्दियों में इन्तजार होता है , उसी सूरज का गर्मियों में तिरस्कार होता है | “ आपकी कीमत तब होगी , जब आपकी ज़रूरत होगी | संसार ज़रूरत के नियम पर चलता है |

There is nothing Down in what is said to be the Down Run as the time from when we had started it was all up & down . The thing which goes up , is to come down - a straight forward message for our lives too. Else we can say that  it taught us :- 

  जीवन उतार-चढ़ाव से भरा है , इसकी आदत बना लो

As the weather was still pleasant & so I was moving ahead in confidence that everything is fine & there was a feeling that there is no need to drink much water as I wasn’t feeling so thirsty .  This thought of mine was going to be very suicidal in the later stage & I was totally unaware of it . In practice also I generally drink 2 litres of water in running 21 km whether I feel thirsty or not but as we were coming by practicing in  very hot & humid conditions  my thought was that it was not required here. But never do this & always follow the same regime which you had done in all your practice runs. No new trials on the Race Day .

CUT-OFF NO. : 02  ( CATO RIDGE – 31.55 km )


We were nearing the second cut-off & crossed it in 3:53:53 hrs . The final cut-off time for this cut-off was 4:30:00 hrs so we were 0:37:07 minutes ahead . One thing is good for me as once the body gets set at a particular speed then it keeps on moving at it constantly or you can also say that there is a cruze control system . Like the last cut-off here also the same average speed of 8.12 km was maintained.  So running at the same speed for nearly FOUR hours was a good sign .

As from here , we had reached Harrison Flats , as it is said but there is nothing Flat here but the name gives us a good psychological feeling that atleast we will get some Flat surface to run at , where there will be no up & down . Comrades is all about the up & down going roads , the rolling hills &  if we expect  that here we will get some flat surface to run at , then forget it , as due to this only it is considered as – The Ultimate Human Race .


I along with Sarveshbhai & Rajivebhai was moving ahead maintaining the constant speed but as planned to run at 8.5 km Sarveshbhai being a fast runner was feeling a bit uneasy to run at this speed so after some time he moved ahead . As we are running in the sea of thousands of runners so once we miss the sight of a co-runner then it is nearly impossible to catch him . So from a starting Group of 5 we were now left with 2 only .
    
I was going well in the company of Rajivebhai with whom I have ran my maximum km in professional events or in practice. We both were moving ahead smoothly in each others company . As we crossed the 37 km mark I remembered that last year on this very mark I had got cramps in both my legs .  Now  I was feeling very happy & was confident that as I had practiced a lot this year so the things will be smooth this time . But I was wrong as this was not to be. After 37 km crossed 38 , 39 , 40 , 41 & 42 km mark but as it is said that Law of Attraction prevails so again was in the similar position just like last year Comrades . Perhaps “ COMRADES “ and “ CRAMPS “ have some “ CONNECTION “ with me . As since running  more than 9000 km of  “ INJURY FREE RUNNING “ twice had “ CRAMPS “ & both time at “ COMRADES “!!!!!!! .
 “अंततः सब अच्छा होगा, यदि अच्छा न हो तो भी यह अंत नहीं है |





I told Rajivebhai it’s a long time & Anilbhai has not crossed us yet , it means he is still behind .  It was just a thought in my mind which I shared . Then we stopped at the nearest medical station for getting bandage done on both my legs . Here also I remembered Shri Dilipbhai Patil who had guided me last year to get it bandaged when I had cramps last year . Again a big Thanks to him as today also I was in the same situation & his idea was working for me. 

As I was getting my bandage done then suddenly saw Anilbhai coming .  Here the situation was just as if  we are having a dinner & suddenly a friend comes then what we will say “ Come have it “ It was just like that . Anilbhai was also having the same problem &  I told him you also get the bandage done . Time was running out. The time bound run is always like that &  we get very less chance to relax & we have to keep on moving. 

After this we again started running but I told Rajivebhai to move ahead as still there was a chance to complete it in sub 11:00:00 hrs. .  I told him you go I will come along with Anilbhai . So he moved ahead . 



As we again started running after getting bandaged we both were finding  it a bit difficult to RUN . We both were in deep pain but Anilbhai was in severe pain as he told , " Perhaps they have bandaged it very tight " . But due to last years experience I knew it will settle down slowly so I replied " Don't worry it will be ok after sometime  " . As like last year we had kept the pain-killer medicine which I always keep it with me but rarely do I take . So here we both had Combiflam to release the pain. Then from here on,  we started running again. Anilbhai was in severe pain & he told that he had been struggling after 31 km & was remembering me , that perhaps he can catch along with us. But as he is also a very good runner & in the month of December 2015 he had finished the New Delhi Half Marathon in 1:47:00 hrs. So I knew his capacity as a runner so I tried to push him that you can still go for Bronze just try & I will follow you but he replied “ Sir , I just want to finish but you can move ahead & give a try for Bronze. I will come along you just move forward .“ But I told him “ No way . I cannot go ahead by leaving you in this situation . “

दुनिया की सबसे सस्ती चीज़ है  “ सलाह “ , एक से माँगो हजारों से मिलती है और सबसे महँगा है “ सहयोग “हजारों से माँगो एक से मिलता है

I knew what it feels to be all alone in this type of situation . I have a simple theory about life that is     
                “ Sharing is Caring “
So in my day to day life also I try to share whatever experience I have gained from running so that people don’t have to go through the pains from which I have gone . It will make life easier for them . In Hindi I would like to say “ जिस दर्द से मैं गुज़रा हूँ , मैं नहीं चाहता कि उस दर्द से कोई और गुज़रे “ . So I honestly share with everyone , whatever little bit knowledge I have known about running .  


In this type of situation the focus has to be diverted otherwise the focus just moves towards the pain only & we just think about Pain & Pain only. Anilbhai is an experienced runner who has trained more than 500 runners from the city of Surat but has only done a single Full Marathon at Mumbai  & one Ultra Marathon of 54 km at Dudhani this year in January & February but has sincerely practiced with us long runs of 50 to 60 km . So divert his attention from pain I told him that as we cannot get the Bronze so let’s enjoy this event at it’s best . He too agreed upon this with a big smile on his face. 
  
CUT-OFF NO. : 03  ( DRUMMOND – 45.57 km )

We had reached the Half Way Mark at Drummond in 5:51:12 hrs for which the final cut-off time was 6:00:00 hrs so we were now merely 0:08:48 minutes ahead at this cut-off . But I was very much sure & confident that we will be ahead at every cut-off as was monitoring it continuously . As now the total theory had changed & we were just enjoying this race in each others company . Seeing him in deep pain , I really forgot my pain which I told him after some time & remembered the lines of a bollywood hit song from a very old movie , sung by the great Mukeshji :-

किसी की मुस्कुराहटों पे हो निसार ,किसी का दर्द मिल सके तो ले उधार
किसी के वासते हो तेरे दिल में प्यार , जीना इसी का नाम है |

माना अपनी जेब से फ़कीर हैं , फिर भी यारों दिल के हम अमीर हैं
मिटे जो प्यार के लिए वो ज़िन्दगी , जले बहार के लिए वो ज़िन्दगी
किसी को हो ना हो हमें तो ऐतबार , जीना इसी का नाम है |

रिश्ता दिल से दिल के ऐतबार का , जिंदा है हमीं से नाम प्यार का
के मर के भी किसी को याद आयेंगे , किसी के आंसुओं में मुस्कुराएंगे
कहेगा फूल हर कली से बार-बार , जीना इसी का नाम है |



We were nearing the " Aurthur Seat " at Outer West Durban - Drummond .  The same Aurthur Baba which saved me last year & all the runners have full respect as pay homage at this very spot . I have faith that there is some magic here , as last year It was from " Nowhere " to have crossed the Finishline is due to some Blessings of this " Saint Aurthur " .  I told Anilbhai let's get a photo clicked here . We had clicked individual photos & selfie here . Time was running & we were already lagging behind but wanted to make this run a memorable one so wouldn't have left this opportunity of being together & that too with a friend , as during a Comrades Run - which I had missed last year . Photos are the only thing which keeps you remind the whole story of that time whenever we see it in future & it definitely gives a smile on our faces when we remember it .    

 One more thing - Person in the Photograph may Change but the Photo Never Changes . " 






From here onwards we had to stop at every water or aid station in search of Pain Relief Spray as Anilbhai was still in deep pain . He was repeatedly telling me to move ahead but in this type of situation if you get someone with you then the job becomes much easier . For any Marathon my theory is clear in this too , which I had shared many times before that there are only two type of finishers – Podium Finishers & Finishers but as here we were trying for Bronze in sub 11:00:00 hrs & that chapter was closed , so even if we finish in 11:59:59 hrs then also we are going to remain a finisher only.  

We were drinking water & coke alternately at every stations to keep ourselves hydrated . The blunder mistake which I did by not drinking much water in the beginning of this race resulted in having cramps but as everything happens for good so had I not got cramps I would not have been able to see a true fighter named “ Anilbhai Mandviwala “ who was just continuing on his self belief & firm determination to finish the race against all odds .

One more lesson learnt here , that we must always keep bottles of Pain Reliever Spray with us during the run as who knows when we might need them . As spray was not available at every Aid Station . At one place where a group of people were sitting in their private tent waiting for their loved ones we requested them to give the spray . I told the lady “ Please Mam can you help us with it as My Friend is in deep pain .” She was kind enough & helped even though she was at a shortage at it and was waiting for her husband who was coming from behind. Thanks to that lady for providing with the assistance  at that very moment.

Last time I had completed the Full Race on Fig & Almonds plus Coke but this time we had Chikki , Fig, Roasted Almonds & Cashew , Dates , Mango Toffees as a variety tied in our waist pouch but were not finding it much tasty at that moment then also were having them from time to time to keep ourselves energized. We were also taking Salt tablets from time to time . Anilbhai was looking like a cute child at this very moment as he told “ सर बहुत देर हो गयी है | क्या करें एक salt tablet ले लेवें “ after sometime he used to say “  सर बहुत देर हो गयी है | क्या करें एक combiflam ले लेवें | “ I too always agreed  & took with him like a true companion .

I was trying to stay behind him as it becomes easier & here also it is psychological that someone is coming behind or the person who is running ahead has to keep on running by considering himself a leader . But the understanding was such that wherever we used to stop we stopped together & then run also together . Even during the Loo Breaks too we used to do the same thing .

We were enjoying every moment of the race . We were at Kloof where we saw the person dressed in Batman & other various character so we took a selfie with them too . Then we took selfies with the beautiful dancers over there . These are the moments but you have to be confident enough that even after spending so much of time for bandaging , walk run strategy , stopping at every station then also you will cross the finish line in time . As I told you that everything we were monitoring regularly & moving ahead accordingly.




CUT-OFF NO. : 04  ( WINSTON PARK – 59.04 km )

We crossed this in 7:43:46 hrs where the final cut-off time was 8:00:00 hrs means now we were 0:16:14 minutes ahead at this stage . So even after so many stoppages our running speed was good & we had covered time to increase the gap from cut-off time. Now the Sun was at it’s best here so the temperature has risen & it was totally reverse of what it was when the run had started .  We were now pouring water on our head to keep the body temperature down.


Just as I stopped at a water station then saw Shyambhai Latha a runner friend from from Mumbai moving ahead  &  this was his third attempt to finish a Comrades since last three years .  I went running to him & told him “ Come on Shyambhai , Let’s go “ but he was very surprised to see me there at that very stage . He asked me “ How come you are here ? “ I told him “ Just like that & the situation is same like previous year . “ Then I again told him “ Let’s go “ but he replied “ You move ahead . I will catch up .“ Here again I did a mistake as would have forcefully took him with me then it would have been better but as Anilbhai had moved ahead & I had to be with him so I only requested Shyambhai . Had I applied a little push then the story would have been totally different for him . Later I came to know he missed this time too . I am extremely Sorry Shyambhai .   

As we were moving from here onwards we were in anticipation that there will be down now & we had preserved a lot of energy by the way of walk run strategy that even after completing 68 km we were running at a speed of 12 to 12.4 km with bandages on both our legs . See what a good company does. Thank You Anilbhai as I was just following you.


CUT-OFF NO. : 05  ( PINETOWN – 70.58 km )

This Cut-off we crossed in 9:10:35 hrs for which the final cut-off time was 9:30:00 hrs so here also we were 0:19:25 minutes ahead of the cut-off time . The people were cheering & applauding from both sides of the road . Even the small children were there , some were serving wafer biscuits . We both had one & as a change it felt as if we had one of the best food at that very time . The crowd support here is awesome & this stage of the race definitely the cheering & applauding carries usto a new level. Hats off to the people who have been standing throughout the day just to cheer each & every runner passing through and whether they know them or not.

As we were running then Anilbhai suddenly saw two familiar faces going together . They were Rahulbhai Kedia & Poojaben Singh from Surat. They run regularly together & are very good runners . As we neared them & said “ Hello, Good Going “   then suddenly Poojaben said “ ललितभाई हो जाएगा ना ? “ I replied “ Definitely , हो जाएगा  | अभी अपने पास बहुत time है | १७ किलोमीटर बाकी हैं और अपने पास ढाई घंटे हैं | आराम से हो जाएगा & then I told Rahulbhai that “ इनको हर water station पर रुक कर coke पिलाना जिससे इनका energy लेवल बढ़ जाएगा | “
 “ Sometimes mind plays very differently & even the strongest of person feels that perhaps this cannot be done . As again she said “ आप करवा दोगे ना “ I said “ हाँ ठीक है , चलिए साथ में ही दौड़ते हैं ”
But this was not to be , as again Anilbhai got a severe cramp  & literally he was not able to walk even , at that stage . So from there they both told “ हम आगे जा रहे हैं “ . We said “ ठीक है आगे मिलते हैं “ | Then again Anilbhai did some stretching & we started walking slowly . After a few minutes  through his will power he again started running & I was besides him . We both had crossed this cut-off together in same time by touching the timing matt together .  Seeing his position now I was in no way to leave him ahead or back so thought that will have to be with him only.  Strategy was simple . As he used to start running , I used to do so & when he used to walk , I too .

Then after sometime we found one more familiar face cheering & applauding the Indian runners - Dereck Shereeen Mahdoo , who stays in Durban & Satishbhai always stays at their house and Mr Dereck is the Guru of our Guru Satishbhai Gujaran  . She asked , " Do you need something ? " I told " Yes ,I need Water " Then she gave me a water bottle & we moved ahead . Thank a Lot " Shereen " as you had come to the Airport to receive us when we landed in Durban & then again you were here during the run . Meeting a known face during a Run definitely increases our energy level & boosts our confidence too .  


CUT-OFF NO. : 06  ( SHERWOOD – 82.67 km )

We crossed this tricky cut-off in 10:53:13 hrs where the final cut-off time was 11:10:00 hrs , so we were 00:16:47 minutes ahead here . I am saying this tricky as many miss out this cut-off after running for more than 11:00:00 hrs. As we were approaching towards the Finish Point & the Final Cut-off  , again we were able to see a huge sea of runners all around . As the finishing ratio is maximum in 11:30 to 11:59 hours but again we had to make the way from this . Here also there were Flyovers to be tackled . There was a gap of 1.5 km between what our watch showed and what the indicator board showed . But when we move a bit here & there to make way then our distance increases . Practically thinking we had 1:06:47 hours to cover the last 7 km . On any other given day it hardly would have taken only around 40 minutes to do so .  But we both had never thought that we are running out of time or it will be neck to neck . Then again we saw Poojaben & Rahulbhai . As we crossed them Poojaben again told “ हो जाएगा ना !!! अभी भी चार किलोमीटर बाकी हैं “ I replied “ आराम से हो जाएगा | अपने पास time भी बहुत है | रुको मत .... दौड़ते रहो | “ They had held their nerves in this situation so were nearing to be part of a historic moment in ones life . 


Practice on tired legs definitely pays in this type of situation as I was running with Anilbhai  at a speed of 10.4 km at 88 km whereas we were seeing people who were struggling to even walk . This  too was in darkness and under the street lights of Durban . I was Thanking God that for this Comrades I got a friend for Life in the form of Anilbhai Mandviwala . His “ Never Say Die Attitude “ has taught me to be the strong in the toughest  of situations. People only admire the one who completed at the top but who completes in total adverse situations has to be applauded more.
  



CUT-OFF NO. : 07  ( DURBAN – 89.13 km )

Now we had entered the Sahara Kingsmead Stadium & were searching for our friends in the stands & as discussed earlier that Manishaben Sheth will be with the Indian Flag & she would be handing  the Flag to each one of us , so that everyone crosses the finish line with an Indian Flag in hand but this was not to be.


This was only my second international event representing India and for Anilbhai it was a Maiden one . Now the excitement was at it’s best & it was giving a true feeling of achieving something extraordinary in totally adverse situation & that too with energy level at it’s best . The cheering & the clapping of the public from the stands made it more emotional . We both crossed the finish line with hand in hand and surprisingly our time & rankings were the same by finishing it in 11:48:18 hours , perhaps the almighty also wished that this Lifetime Memorable Moment where we both had not planned in advance but it was destined to be & as we ran together with each other so there was not a fraction of a difference in timings too. Truly unbelievable .


After we had finished we were welcomed by runner friends from Mumbai who were waiting for their friends who were coming from behind . Kashyapbhai Modi with Avinshabhai Chandak etc. were waiting . We Congratulated each other& then they handed us the Indian Flag which they had & told us to get a photograph clicked with it. It was an awesome feeling . My last year Comrades Finishing partner Vivekbhai Singhal was also present there . I got a photograph clicked with him too . Then we moved on to receive our Medals .







Rahulbhai & Poojaben also finished in 11:50:07 hrs. We Congratulated each other .  Indeed it was a superb performance from both of them too . As they both are very good runners & are mentors to many in Surat so this performance of their will inspire many to do Comrades in future .

After receiving our medals we moved on to the International Tent . We got to know that Sureshbhai & Dipakbhai had to quit  at various cut-off’s & gone back to the Hotel where we were staying. It indeed was a very sad feeling but it can happen to anyone . It all depends on a particular day . I never used to believe in this , but seeing at today’s performances have to be ready for any type of situation. We Congratulated each other & were extremely happy but a thing really pinched me & will continuously pinch me till Sureshbhai & Dipakbhai finish a Comrades as I was in no position to help them . They also had registered because of me. I would like to say to both of them “ I am Extremely Sorry  ,that I was not with you , when you both needed the most  .“







   


 

This will not be complete if I don't Thank all the people who are behind me as just because of the good wishes & blessings are the main source behind all this , then only I am able to achieve any target at ease . In no chronological order :- 

1. My Parents - Had you not brought me up in a healthier way & also directed me to live a disciplined healthy lifestyle this would have been totally impossible to have achieved at this age . An age when most people like to play safe . I am Thankful to My Brothers , Sisters, Nephews , Niece & All My Family Members who have always appreciated & applauded all My Achievements .

2. My Wife & My Children - First of all my wife adopted & started running just for me after I suddenly announced ( Without discussing with her ) at the felicitation program of my Successfully finishing Comrades 2015 that she will run a Half Marathon at Hyderabad in August 2015 . Since then she participated & completed 6 Official Half Marathons in 7 months of running . 
My Children have also been a powerful force as whenever we have been out of Surat for Marathon they have adjusted accordingly & even during the weekends or week days they have always made me stronger & not weak by adjusting here too . 

3. Mrs & Mr Rakeshbhai Gandhi - You are an excellent gift provided to me by God who has always shown me to be on the right path & just to follow the dreams . You may not be in the picture but your unconditional support has made me reach & achieve any target . I feel proud in saying that even the closest of blood relation would not have made me so comfortable as you do . 

4. Satishbhai Gujaran - I really feel short of words to express my feelings for you as even after achieving so much in Life you are so humble - A lesson to be learnt . Always helpful in whichever & whatever way you can to promote Running . Respected Sir , people will remember till ages , your 284 km run from Mumbai to Surat last year in September 2015 in three days . Your humbleness is always at the best as after finishing in 9:55 hours you had waited for everyone just to welcome & congratulate everyone.
 आप दूसरों को वो जो चाहें उसे पाने में मदद करते हो तो आपको भी
    अपने जीवन में जो आप चाहेंगे वह आपको मिलेगा |



5. Ashishbhai Kapadiya - Another gem of a person whom was able to meet only due to running . My single call to you to register for Comrades & you registered and came along with us . You are a master in whatever you do . This was your First International Event but as usual you came out  with flying colors as expected in totally adverse &  tough situation on that day. Wishing you All the Best for many more future International Events .

हर व्यक्ति में आप कुछ विशेष पायेंगे , यदि उसे पढ़ना आप जान जायें तो |

6. Dhruvbhai Trivedi - You were the youngest of all 16 participants from Surat . For you I have only to say " At FIRST they will ask YOU Why you are doing it  but later they will ask you how you did it . " Never have seen such a devoted person , who used to come half an hour early & then start early whenever we had plan to run together .  It was all your hardwork which has brought you till here from 10 km to 90 km in just 13 months . Have Thanked you many times & will like to Thank again & again that you had full faith in me and whenever I had told you anything you have followed it blindly. You have got a very bright future to not only inspire the people of Surat only but indeed world wide . After Completion we met in the International Tent & You told me that you have finished it in 10:45 hrs , I felt that as if I have achieved it . I have known you as a person too & I know you won't be carried away but would only like to say that always remember :-
"  पतंग और ज़िन्दगी में एक समानता है कि जब तक दोनों 
    ऊँचाईयों पर होती है चारों तरफ से वाह-वाह होती रहती है | "


7. Rajivbhai Sheth - A master of maximum number of Half Marathons from the city of Surat who started running 42 km since last 6 months & turned into an ultra distance runner & now a strong Comrades Finisher . Yours was an extraordinary superlative performance with one of the strongest finish which proved that age is just a number . My Best Wishes are always with you, so Just keep going & doing further international events to inspire more & more people . 
" अपनी शक्ति पर भरोसा करनेवाला कभी असफल नहीं होता | "


8. Nipunbhai Jindal - A true friend who likes to share honestly as you were also the one out us who had attended the Brude Foyce bus tour of the Comrades tour & shared with us the entire route map which helped us . You had told us to keep patience till first 65 km & enjoy the complete down hill run after that . Atleast I planned & enjoyed the downhill in the company of Anilbhai by running at a speed of 12.5 km even after running 68 km . Even after having severe ITB problem after 30 km you just continued & finished it by running on the uphill & walking in downhill . As you yourself are a doctor you knew how to tackle this thus proving 


" If you quit once it becomes a habit . NEVER QUIT . " but am sure if I would have been in such a situation then would have to return back from there . 


 " हम हवा का रुख तो नहीं बदल सकते लेकिन उसके अनुसार
   अपनी नौका के पाल की दिशा ज़रूर बदल सकते हैं | " 


9. Sarveshbhai Gupta - I really missed your company in the last years Comrades & had wished that we would finish together but am extremely sorry that I was not able to match & maintain your speed . No regrets but had you & Rajivebhai would have finished within 10:59:59 hrs then it would have given me immense satisfaction. 

You too are an honest person as you had told me when we met after completion , that if you had completed in 11:33 hours how come we are going to reach before 12:00 hours cut off . I am Thankful to you too that you registered & we had spend the best of time together . Wishing you all the Best for your future events .
खुद को बेहतर बनाने की या सुधारने की प्रक्रिया तेज़ नहीं हो सकती ,
   इसमें प्रयास , समय के साथ-साथ धैर्य की भी आवश्यकता होती है |


10. Rajivebhai Valadra - A person with whom I have ran the maximum distance out of the 9000 km I have ran till Comrades . Thank You that you too registered & crossed the finish line at ease . Yes ,  we were together till 42 km mark & I had told you to move ahead & you moved on . With you I have ran the maximum number of kilometers & would have loved to cross the finish line together but this time perhaps this was not to be . Hoping that everything goes fine & we cross the finishing line at Comrades together in future .  
     “ किसी की सलाह से रास्ते ज़रूर मिलते हैं , पर मंजिल तो खुद की मेहनत से ही मिलती है | ”
   

11. Anilbhai Mandviwala – You are one such person whom I will like to admire rest of my Life. Being a mentor to more than 500 runners from Surat  , I knew people will be tracking you minutely & minute by minute . As after we came back one of the runner told me “
और किसी का Comrades होता या नहीं होता लेकिन Anilbhai का होना ज़रूरी था | This says it all , that how much people love you & admire you . Had it been in my hands I would have awarded you with an extra medal for  this extraordinary performance . Although people might be saying that I was with you than you were able to cross the finish line but instead I would like to confess here that due to your presence it made me more comfortable & easier to cross the finish line . I truly enjoyed this run with you & till date is one of the best runs which I have ran . Indeed I was lucky enough to found a Running partner who both were sailing in the same boat with bandages on , taking the pain killers , salt tablets together at regular intervals as if some shares cigarette or a drink by saying “ Cheers “ . Thank  You My Dear Friend for trusting me & registering for Comrades on my single say. This Comrades 2016 , many who know us both will remember for your performance . Not only I but more people will admire you for this achievement  of yours.  For you I have only to say this :-  


ज़िन्दगी एक पल है , जिसमें आज है ना कल है , जी लो इसको इस तरह कि जो भी आपसे मिले वो यही कहे , बस यही उसकी ज़िन्दगी का सबसे हसीन पल है |



 A Grand Salute to the Two Unsung Heroes who knew what the result would be because of their injury ,  then also they attempted Comrades & for that you need a Very Big Heart :-


12. Deepakbhai Mundra – You too had come with an injury but had it been your day then the result would have been totally different . You missed the cut-off by a few minutes . Perhaps it was not Your Day & you again got hit on the same spot where you already had injury thus making it difficult for you to carry on but completing 72 km in this type of situation is also a Superb Achievement . I know you too are a strong character so you will come back next time more strongly . My good wishes are always with you .  

ज़िन्दगी कभी मुश्किल तो कभी आसान होती है , आँखों पर नमी होठों पर मुस्कान होती है ,
न भूलना अपनी मुस्कराहट को , इससे ही हर मुश्किल आसान होती है |

13. Sureshbhai Dakhara – A person of strong character . As you were injured then also you had the courage to come all the way from Surat . You were familiar with the result but then also you accepted it as a challenge. Your ever smiling face & your nature of making everyone laugh with the way you pass the little sayings in Gujarati but the best was welcoming us all with a smiling face & embracing each & everyone of us with loads of Congratulations , says it all . I honestly say that had I been in your situation then would have been totally depressed but as you have shown me by way of this extraordinary example , I too will try to follow your footsteps . You have proved the lines of the writer which totally fits you & I feel perhaps he must have written by keeping you in mind :-

हम हवा नहीं जो खो जायेंगे , वक्त नहीं जो गुज़र जायेंगे ,
हम मौसम नहीं जो बदल जायेंगे , हम तो आँसू हैं जो ख़ुशी और गम दोनों में साथ निभायेंगे |

I wish that whenever we do Comrades next time we will come with more strength , power & preparations . Wishing you All the Best for Future Runs .



14. All the Members of Run for Unity , Speed Racers & All Other Participants  who participated in the Night Run Wishing us Good Luck – The Best  wishes of you all in presence , in the Good Wishes Book , when you all came to the Railway Station when we were going to Durban & when we returned back from Durban has helped us to complete this run successfully . It is just about  unconditional bonding which we all share . Thanking You All without naming anyone in particular from the bottom of My Heart .




15. My Dynamic Family Members – Each & every member here , has played a very supportive role in all my achievements as their good wishes have been always with me . They have always watched very closely both my Comrades Run & have always appreciated all my achievements . Indeed I am Thankful to all of them too .

“ ज़िन्दगी का अहम् फलसफा यह है कि यह पता लगाना बहुत मुश्किल है कि हमारे जीवन के कुएँ में सफलता का जो पानी आता है , वह आता कहाँ–कहाँ से है | किसी भी काम के होने में , किसी भी बात के बनने में  और कोई भी सफलता हासिल होने में न जाने कितने छोटे-बड़े , जाने-अनजाने  और अपने-परायों का हाथ होता है | ”

Last but not the least , always remember which someone has very rightly said that :-


ज़िन्दगी में कितने भी आगे निकल जायें , फिर भी सैंकड़ों लोगों से पीछे रहेंगे | ज़िन्दगी में कितने भी पीछे  रह जायें , फिर भी सैंकड़ों लोगों से आगे होंगे |       अपनी जगह का लुत्फ़ उठायें , आगे-पीछे तो दुनिया में चलता रहेगा


Thank You All Once again for going through My Very-Very Long Journey of Comrades 2016 & If You like it do share it who knows you might be helping someone to adopt RUNNING to LIVE a HEALTHY LIFE or someone might set a vision to do COMRADES