Beyond the finish line: exploring the world through runs & marathons
A banter with a seasoned marathoner - Dilip
As we jot down our New Year's resolutions, get ready to dive into the thrilling tales of Dilip conquering marathons across diverse cities and countries. This episode goes beyond city exploration—it's about running through the vibrant landscapes of cities, suburbs, hills and more! Brace yourself as our guest unfolds the exhilarating highs, navigates through challenges, and reveals awe-inspiring finish lines, reigniting the spark of wanderlust within you.
Meet our guest Dilip1, an avid marathon runner, who seamlessly integrates his passion for running with his demanding work schedule that frequently takes him to diverse locations. Training diligently two to three times a week, he reserves Sundays for his long runs that make him feel like a running superhero.
Now, here's the kicker – Dilip's not just clocking miles for the sake of it. Nope, he's a work-travel pro, but he's also a clever mastermind. Even though his work makes him travel a lot, Dilip sneakily slots in his running adventures wherever he goes. Each new city or town turns into a playground for his running sandals (yup, he doesn’t believe in running with sneakers!), creating these awesome and unforgettable experiences. This guy's all about embracing the challenges on the road, turning business trips into a fun run around the block.
In the early days, Dilip's idea of a workout barely extended beyond two stretches in a small local garden – and that was pushing it. He wore the badge of being fit with a certain pride, savoring burgers and beers like a champion! But, when he learned about the impending arrival of his twins in 2016, Dilip decided to make a significant change in his life. A stroke of luck came in the form of a group of friends who were genuinely enthusiastic about the world of running. Soon enough, Dilip found himself joining running groups, breaking free from the confines of his modest garden stretches Persistence became his mantra. Understanding that everyone starts somewhere, his fitness journey kicked into high gear, and encouraged by his friends, he joined the Striders2, a running group in Mumbai, that added structure to his newfound enthusiasm.
The key, he found, was not just getting started but immersing himself in the camaraderie of fellow runners. The motivation, he realized, emanated from the shared enthusiasm of those hitting the pavement alongside him. It was the 5 AM friends, the early risers focused on sunrise runs, that fueled his dedication – a different breed from those partying until the wee hours.
Initially lacking discipline, Dilip devised a compromise – if he was going to indulge in weekend beers, he had to earn them through his weekly runs. This simple philosophy gradually transformed into a commitment to regular training. What began as a humble 1-5 kilometres a week escalated to an impressive 35-50 kilometres weekly routine. Dilip, a self-professed slow runner, found solace in not constantly gasping for breath.
The winds of change blew even stronger post-COVID in 2021 when Dilip's wife, Nivedita, decided to join the running fray. Displaying a level of diligence and consistency that even Dilip admired, they both decided to take their fitness journey to the next level. United in their fitness journey, the couple enlisted the help of a nutritionist, resulting in both becoming leaner and fitter.
Upon his recent relocation to Gurgaon, Dilip discovered another stroke of luck – the Gurgaon Road Runners3. Joining this competent community added a layer of enjoyment to his training and running routine. The city's roads, particularly in winter, offer a unique and enjoyable running experience. However, the enjoyment comes with a price tag – investing in winter clothes becomes a necessity for those dedicated to the pursuit of running excellence 🤣
We absolutely loved how Dilip inter-twined his passion for running with his love for travel, effortlessly integrating it even into his work-related journeys. Dilip firmly believes that running offers a unique lens to explore a city, particularly in the early morning when the streets are less crowded. His brisk runs allows him to discover the city or suburb at his own pace, creating an immersive and personal experience on foot.
This one time Dilip was ok a work trip to Trivandrum and went for his usual morning run when he spotted a sign for the Anantha Padmanabhaswamy Temple. In a true temple run spirit, he thought, why not get a darshan of the temple and then sprint back to the hotel?! A good idea I’d think..
Off he hustled to the temple, only to find out about the dress code dilemma – no shorts allowed - a veshti/dhoti is essential. Thankfully the temple had the facility where one could rent a veshti/dhoti and even grab a towel to partially cover up. However, the real challenge began when he handed over his sweat-soaked clothes to the rental attendant. The horror on her face was undeniable, but with a bit of persuasion and the plea that he had just finished a run, Dilip managed to secure a spot for his belongings 🤣
Now, to add a comedic twist to the tale, when it came time to make a donation at the temple, Dilip found himself in a cash crunch. He was just out for a run, no wallet, nothing! Desperate, he asked the rental lady if she accepted online payments. Unfortunately, digital cash wasn't on the menu back then, but with a simple plea to be quick, the kind lady let him borrow the rented clothes for free.
The guilt that ensued prompted Dilip to make amends upon returning to the hotel. He donated to the temple charity trust, making up for the borrowed clothes and expressing gratitude for the unexpected act of generosity. Reflecting on the experience, Dilip couldn't help but imagine the run in a veshti/dhoti – a quirky idea inspired by the sight of people running in suits or even superhero outfits during popular marathons 🤣
In Baroda, Dilip enjoyed the run in a park full of folks running/walking or just working out. Jaipur brought a surprise as he stumbled upon Central Park, a vast space with laughter clubs, jogging tracks, and even room for horse riding and polo. Right in the heart of the city, the 60km loop maintained by the Jaipur government showcases the emergence of such fitness hubs in various cities – a simple Google search reveals these hidden gems. Similar experiences in Ludhiana, where he enjoyed seeing a group of senior citizens getting together for the ‘laughter-therapy’ session.
Ahmedabad offered a scenic route along the Sabarmati Riverfront, a 5-7 km stretch. Running alongside the river, Dilip enjoyed spotless tracks, serene surroundings, and minimal crowding. Despite the water not being crystal clear, the track's cool ambiance made it an inviting space. Intrigued by the prospect, he contemplates trying out Kankaria Lake on his next visit.
In Pune, Dilip stumbled upon a hidden gem quite by accident. Caught in the rain, he serendipitously discovered the sprawling campus of Pune University, an enclave that rivals the grandeur of an IIT. The meticulously designed roads and parks beckoned to him. What started as a planned 1-1.5 hour run turned into an extended 3-hour run. The campus's sheer beauty, coupled with the unexpected joy of discovering a public running space, kept Dilip moving. The fact that such a stunning location was open to the public was a pleasant surprise, creating a space where many could enjoy their runs.
The trend of embracing a healthy lifestyle is thriving. In every city, be it a bustling metropolis or a tier-2 town, the mornings come alive with people actively engaging in running, walking, or various workout routines. It's a vibrant and energizing sight, showcasing a collective commitment to fitness and well-being across diverse landscapes.
When it comes to Marathons, Dilip couldn't help but marvel at the grandeur of the TATA Mumbai Marathon4, an event that felt more like a joyous festival than a mere race. With over 35,000 participants, the atmosphere was nothing short of electric, and the meticulous arrangements ensured that even the most discerning individuals were in awe of the spectacle. Sponsored by Tata, familiar faces of celebrities among the sea of runners add an extra layer of glamour to the occasion.
In Mumbai, the crowd support was nothing short of legendary. In fact, the last stretch of running from Peddar Road, tackling a challenging flyover, and making the journey towards Marine Drive, was both physically demanding and emotionally uplifting. The roads of the posh South Bombay area were adorned with spectators, offering cheers which provided the much-needed motivation to push through. Dilip found himself offered energy drinks all along the route, a testament to the city's hospitality (ofcourse, being in the posh SoBo area, meant no basic lemon water, only energy drinks!)
And to top it off, Mumbai Marathons timed themselves perfectly with the city's best weather – January – creating a runner's paradise with cool breezes and clear skies. The unique blend of camaraderie, unwavering crowd energy, and amazing arrangements made the Mumbai Marathon an unparalleled experience for Dilip.
Dilip found immense joy in participating in the Delhi marathon and it's easy to see why. The combination of a fantastic route winding around Lutyens' Delhi and India Gate, coupled with the delightful weather, made it a truly enjoyable experience. What added an extra layer of joy was the camaraderie of the Gurgaon Road Runners group, with the bonus of having his wife Nivedita join in too.
For Dilip a good marathon transcends mere distance – it's about the route, the elevation, the trail, and the soul-stirring surroundings. So, the Satara hill marathon5 route is one such amazing one. Nestled in the enchanting landscape of the Western Ghats, Satara's half marathon unfolds in the midst of the monsoons, promising a unique and rain-kissed running adventure. The starting point is the city itself, launching participants on a 10.5 km ascent to the hilltop, where the journey reaches its zenith before descending back down to the city.
Dilip loves how from the moment you collect your running bib to the day you hit the trail, the entire city of Satara becomes a cheer zone, with everyone rallying behind the runners. The support is nothing short of extraordinary, turning the marathon into a communal celebration of determination and spirit.
The trail, though slightly inclined, adds an element of challenge, making it a bit tough but undeniably exhilarating. The joy of conquering the elevation and the breathtaking views along the way create a sense of accomplishment that resonates long after the run is over.
In the realm of challenging terrains, Dilip has embraced the Lonavala Ultra Marathon6, conquering its 50-kilometer stretch and completing the ultra marathon twice with unwavering determination. The race has evolved, moving from its previous outskirts setting to a city-based start and finish. Taking place in late February, Lonavala's cool weather adds an extra layer of challenge to the formidable trail.
This marathon unfolds as a breathtaking journey, featuring rolling hills that demand an unrelenting rhythm of ascent and descent. Starting at 2:30 am for the 50-kilometer runners and at 4:30 am for those taking on the 35-kilometer stretch. The course extends the typical 8-kilometer run time by an additional 30 minutes, a testament to the challenging hill stretch.
In this trail, solitude becomes a constant companion, as the nature of the course makes running alongside fellow participants a rarity. Runners are left mostly alone with their thoughts and the trail ahead, making the Lonavala Marathon a solitary yet deeply rewarding journey.
Crossing the finish line, Dilip was greeted by the heart-warming sight of his children and wife, cheering and clapping in celebration of his personal triumph. The support of loved ones adds an extra layer of significance to completing such a demanding race.
Dilip recently ran the Singapore marathon event7 and couldn't help but sing praises about the Mumbai Marathon to friends and family. In Singapore, the marathon experience fell a little short of expectation as it failed to start on time and with the unusual occurrence of half and full marathoners commencing their run together – a departure from the norm that left Dilip scratching his head. BUT, the marathon was also a special one for him.. Singapore is a city reminiscent of Mumbai's heat, humidity and daily rain rituals. But, half way through the marathon, as if led by the rain God, Varuna, it started pouring and the initially daunting weather turned into something unexpectedly pleasant. Talk about a weather mood swing! And running through the gorgeous Gardens by the Bay (a man-made garden) stretch of Singapore, Dilip pulled off a personal best, clocking a full marathon at 4 hours and 55 minutes. That's saying something, considering he's taken on nine ultra and full marathons. Singapore, with its surprise rain and stunning scenery, holds the crown as Dilip's most memorable marathon.
The allure of exploring a new city was not lost on Dilip. Whenever he found himself in an unfamiliar place, he made it a point to undertake 1-2 runs, soaking in the unique charm of each location. This simple practice became a way for him to connect with the essence of a new city and its vibrant energy, adding yet another layer to his ever-evolving running journey.
Dilip's running adventures also took him to the outskirts of London for the Wimbledon Marathon, an experience that added a touch of British elegance to his diverse marathon portfolio.
In Dilip's marathon journey, Amsterdam stands out as an exceptionally tourist-friendly host. The marathon's accessibility is further facilitated by tourism companies that specialize in assisting individuals in securing spots for these prestigious races.
Dilip holds a special affection for the Amsterdam Marathon, considering it the most delightful of his running experiences. The scenic route left an indelible impression, allowing participants to enjoy the beauty of the city throughout the day, much like the early morning walks ingrained in India. The event is proudly sponsored by TCS, featuring both half and full marathons with a picturesque finish in a stadium. Dilip notes the impeccable arrangements along the trail, ensuring a seamless experience for participants.
His post marathon stories left us in splits. The post-marathon fatigue and a surprisingly modest appetite led Dilip and his friend to a place that turned the day around. The duo had grand plans of heading out for a drink or two post the meal, but a massive bucket of very yum Belgian fries filled them up royally and they called it a day! It totally capped off the Amsterdam Marathon experience on a satisfying note 🤤
The day after their Amsterdam Marathon triumph, Dilip and his friend had an afternoon flight. Deciding to indulge in a hearty breakfast before departure, they opted for a popular spot known for New Zealand cuisine. The waiting time for their table took them to a retail store nearby selling “brownies”. Intrigued by the array of brownie options, they settled for a medium one, sharing the indulgent treat between them. The leisurely breakfast left them feeling pleasantly sleepy. It wasn't until they reached the hotel that the lightbulb moment happened – oh, the “brownie” effect was kicking in, and there was a flight to catch!
The ten-minute drive from the hotel to the airport felt like an eternity. Dilip, in his half-asleep state, kept asking "Are we there yet?". Somehow the duo reached the airport, checked in and crashed for two-hours before boarding! But guess what? The “brownie” hangover stuck around for longer.. Through the 8-hour flight between Amsterdam and Mumbai, he barely managed to stay awake for 45 minutes. Talk about in-flight entertainment, right? 🤣
We enjoyed the several stories Dilip shared about his running groups - Striders and Gurgaon Road Runners. About how the group isn’t just about training/running, but is a great group of friends who initially got together coz of a common passion for running, but now extended to a great gang - even going tripping together! Exchanging anecdotes from their lives, enriching the training sessions with personal stories and creating a community that thrives on collective inspiration. One such inspiring person is Mr. Ravichandran, a 67-year-old dynamo who not only competes but triumphs. Dilip admires Ravi's dedication, evident in his seven-day running cycles and thrice-weekly swims. Ravi's refusal to retire becomes a powerful source of motivation, challenging stereotypes about age limitations in running.
In Dilip's running escapades, chance encounters weave a unique tapestry of connections. Conversations sparked during runs, while not necessarily leading to lasting connections, add a distinct charm to the experience. Among the constants in Dilip's running journey is his friend Shailesh. They've been running companions since their Mumbai days, weathering pre-COVID, during COVID, and even conquering the Amsterdam marathon together. The camaraderie of these enduring friendships often becomes the fuel that propels them through substantial distances, with conversations ranging from literature to the nuances of work life.
The unexpected encounters, arising from casual chats during runs, sometimes extend beyond the tracks. Dilip recalls getting into a conversation with a fellow runner during the Amsterdam marathon and the chit chat with the runner pushed Dilip to run from the 25km to the 35km mark with great ease - amazing stories exchanged!
In Dilip's running world, sandals take precedence over traditional running shoes. Having delved into the insights shared by Christopher McDougall in his book Born to Run, he learned that the cushioning in running shoes might be counterproductive and potentially contribute to knee injuries. Embracing this philosophy, Dilip opts for sandals, recognizing that the human leg and foot are naturally designed to experience the lowest pressure when running barefoot.
Luna sandals8 have become his footwear of choice for long runs. These sandals are specifically designed for endurance running, offering a combination of ventilation and comfort that suits Dilip's running style. In the running community, there's a niche group of barefoot runners, echoing the belief that minimalistic footwear can enhance the natural mechanics of running. Are you still holding out for the perfect pair of sneakers before lacing up and hitting the road?
In the country, Dilip eagerly anticipates marathons like the Nilgiri Trail9 for its renowned beauty, though he acknowledges the challenging second half—descending the hill before ascending it. Despite yearning to experience the Ladakh Marathon10, considered the best in the country, the need for a 10-day acclimatization period remains a challenge due to work constraints. Dilip notes the overwhelming joy reported by those who undertake this unique marathon.
Dilip harbors an ambitious life goal – to conquer the World Majors, a prestigious list that includes iconic marathons in cities like New York, Chicago, Boston, London, Berlin, and Tokyo. With an eye on the future, he speculates that Sydney might join the ranks of World Majors, becoming another sought-after destination in his marathon conquest. While this year didn't permit participation in the New York Marathon, Dilip plans to conquer the New York marathon in 2024 along with his wife Nivedita.
Understanding the significance of marathon training, Dilip's commitment shines through. Last year, he embarked on the challenge of four marathons, investing seven months out of the twelve in rigorous preparation. Beyond the physical benefits, Dilip finds the training process therapeutic, fostering a sense of investment and commitment that sustains him throughout the journey. The environment plays a pivotal role in his running experience. The allure of the trail isn't just about reaching the finish line; it's about the emotions stirred by the surroundings, the euphoria of the runner's high extending beyond mere completion.
Sharing his insights, Dilip guides aspiring runners on how to tap into a vibrant runner-community. In the ever-popular running scene, finding a local group is almost a given, creating a supportive network that adds to the joy of running. He feels that marathons are more than races—they're holistic journeys that blend physical challenge, mental rejuvenation, and a profound connection to the environment, ensuring that every step is both purposeful and fulfilling.
Dilip feels that it's a killer concept to incorporate runs into travel plans because it adds an extra layer of enjoyment. Not only does it offer a delightful way to explore new places at your own pace, but it also provides a perfect opportunity to unwind and relax. So adding to Dilip’s suggestion, we are making this our 2024 mantra - head out, run, explore, get fit, travel and just do it! Have a fit, healthy, adventurous and travel-full 2024. HAPPY NEW YEAR 🙂
TATA Mumbai Marathon - event website
Satara Hill Marathon - Instagram page
Lonavala Ultra Marathon - event website
Singapore Marathon - event website
Nilgiri trail / Ooty marathon - event website
Ladakh Marathon - event website
Note from the MOAS team: A half marathon spans ~21 kilometres, and a full marathon doubles that to ~42.2 kilometres. Then, there's the Ultra Marathon, a realm where the brave venture beyond 50 kilometres, testing the limits of human stamina and grit.
Books on running recommended by Dilip:
Born to run - Christopher McDougall
Can't hurt me - David Goggins
Finding Ultra - Rich Roll
North - Scott Jurek
Running like a girl - Alexandra Heminsley.