20/10/2019
• • • • • •
*Long Post Alert*
Never understood the significance of ‘Comebacks’ till I did this marathon.
The start to this season was horrible to say the least. Had to undergo a minor surgery, so that meant the entire practice regime went for a toss. The biggest problem was getting back to basics like getting up early on time, avoiding things which you are not supposed to eat or drink. Though I got back to training but was not able to reach my sweet spot.
For a runner from Delhi is like the Olympics of all marathons. I generally do a half marathon a month before the Airtel Delhi Marathon, to assess where I stand. That marathon shattered me like anything. I ended up finishing that marathon in 2.35, my all time worst marathon in terms of timing. But took back loads of learning from that marathon. It was a wake up call and I am so glad to have participated.
My Personal Best of all time has been 2hrs. After the marathon which I did exactly 50 days back, I had given up hopes on a New Personal Best. When a big event is on the way it requires loads of determination and practice. I put in all that I had, kept working and never kept a target for ADHM. Even though I generally go in a marathon with a particular target in mind. Being a sales guy I know how to chase targets also know what are the repercussions if one does not achieve them. But for ADHM I did not have any particular target in mind, I went there to enjoy. Sometimes going blank is a beautiful thing. But deep down in my heart I wanted to see through the finish line with a smile. It was close to impossible for me to do a New Personal Best, which means improving my timing by 36 minutes. I am glad I came out fighting with my self. Ended up doing ADHM 2019 in 1.57, which is my New Personal Best. It’s even more special for a fact that I could do all this, with my backs on the wall. Now I understand what a sportsperson goes through when they make ‘Comebacks’. A big shoutout to for all the wonderful memories and the arrangements. Lessons learnt, Never give up no matter how tough the going gets, just keep working on your New Personal Best not just in marathons but in all