Mumbai: The thriving marathon culture in India is the fruit of the efforts of a handful of passionate individuals who are stretching their own limits even as they strive for a better and sustainable future for other runners. Savio D’Souza, a seasoned marathon runner, has been a familiar fixture in distance running for more than twenty years. His passion for running developed from enjoying events like the 1500m and 5000m races. Over time, he realised that he was more inclined towards marathons.
What began as a challenge to complete the 42 km distance turned into a lifelong passion. The year 2022 brought some harsh news to the veteran, as he was diagnosed with cancer. Nevertheless, years of relentless training enabled him to bear the difficulties of chemotherapy treatment. After completing the treatment, he resumed with short walks and then jogging. Before long, he resumed full marathon training. At present, D’Souza gives fitness coaching to tennis players. “The key to marathon success is consistency and the right attitude. India was never in the top 10, but in the last few years, we have seen runners reaching the top ranks,” he told TOI.
Meanwhile, architect and a marathon runner since 2004, Parul Sheth began by participating in local marathons with friends in Mumbai. She discovered how much she loved running after finishing the half marathons. Sheth has been a constant participant in the Tata Mumbai Marathon since 2005 except the first. She describes the Boston Marathon as the ‘Olympics of Marathons’ for its tough qualifying routine.
While working full-time and taking care of her family, Sheth sets an example for her children about prioritising self-care. She has also written a book on the lessons the sport has taught her. Dr Aashish Contractor, a leading expert in sports medicine and cardiac rehabilitation, has played a key role in shaping India’s approach to fitness and long-distance running. His journey began during his student years in the USA. “The number of marathon events in India is on the rise along with the awareness of health,” he said. As former medical director of the Mumbai Marathon for 10 years, he says the hardest part was to ensure quick, timely medical attention for runners along the congested roads as well as proper communication with runners.
The doctor emphasizes the point that marathon runners are in top heart health, but on the other hand, they do not have strong muscles as some other athletes. Savio D’Souza, Parul Sheth and Dr Aashish Contractor stand out for their unique contributions, which include battling personal conflicts and advanced medical knowledge regarding long-distance running. Their experience demonstrates that running is now about self-control and lifelong learning rather than just crossing the finish line in a race.