Pleasing weather, cloudy sky, and intermittent rain showers… what could be better than these for a long run? The city ruled by Nizams and Mughals boast of many historical events which are still alive in the eyes of many Indians. Yes, I am talking about Hyderabad and the marathon held here on a beautiful Sunday on Aug 26, 2012. The city had second consecutive Marathon sponsored by Air Tel and powered by Hyderabad Runners, a group dedicated to run and run.
For me, running was not a regular stuff and I avoided it on all occasions unless I felt my body required it. The grand annual Marathon in Mumbai inspired me to walk first in year (2010), walk again (2011) and run in 2012. And the running lasted till I covered 21.09 km despite the crimped knees and thighs. And since then, it continued so long that I landed in Hyderabad in 2012 to participate in its second edition of Airtel Hyderabad Marathon 2012. The cheering and supporting fellow runners, cloudy weather ending into a rainfall and energy drinks at every 2 kms helped in keeping the pace unless I touched the finish line. The finishing area, GMC Balayogi Stadium, named after the late speaker of Lok Sabha happened to be the spectacular multi cross-legged steel and RCC structure still standing like a new class waiting for the next round of new students. The hilly terrain including many flyovers made the journey little tiring but the uncalled rain showers cheered many runners to their rescue of high altitudes. Somehow, I finished my half marathon of 21.07 kms in 2 hours 52 minutes; however, my GPS locator indicated 21.41 km in 2 hours, 49 minutes and 41 seconds. I admit that I didn’t practice for the run seriously but my regular outings including of trekking helped my mental clock ticking. Last but not least, I would like to mention that the enthusiasm had not been alive till I didn’t get the cause running with me, the cause to ‘Promote Education’ under the umbrella of “Umang Foundation”.
Hyderabad appeared a far better place than my imagination; though I didn’t visit Old Hyderabad. The aromas of Biryani couldn’t stop me eating the delicious Biryani from the famous and historical food court, Paradise. I visited my old friends who happened to enjoy the Biryani’s aroma daily. Hyderabad, wait, and here I come next year. But before that I need to finish many more marathons in India.
Keep Running and Be Healthy!
