The Agony and Ecstasy of running a Barefoot Marathon at Tata Mumbai Marathon 2023

 Running a marathon is a Herculean feat, one that tests the limits of both physical and mental fortitude. It is a journey that elicits a plethora of emotions and experiences, ranging from agony to elation, frustration to triumph.

They say a picture is worth more than 1000 words, yet I will dare to pen few of my experiences which the pictures may not communicate.

The Agony and Ecstasy of a Marathoner is not so obvious or visible from the pictures, hence the humble attempt.

I am attempting to keep brief the various highs and lows associated with the crossing of finish line.

I dared to run the Tata Mumbai Marathon 2023, bare foot. I am sharing few of the behind the scenes thoughts and experiences which I did undergo before, during and after the event.

Most of this are speaking to self, stating in loud and most Marathoners will resonate this words with feelings they have undergone at some point in the run.

Physical Strain: "As I traversed the pavement, my legs felt as if they were mired in molasses, my feet were pulsating with pain, and my lungs were ablaze. Every stride was a veritable odyssey, but I steadfastly refused to surrender."

Mental Perplexity: "There were instances during the race when I felt I was on the verge of collapse. My mind was beset with misgivings, but my heart, unvanquished, urged me forward." 

Conquering Adversity: "I was diagnosed with a debilitating malady mere months before the marathon, but I resolutely refused to allow it to impede my progress. I trained with redoubled vigor and crossing the finish line was a crowning moment of my life."

Sense of Accomplishment: "Completing a marathon is akin to scaling a mountain. It demands both physical and mental prowess, but the elation of crossing the finish line is akin to reaching the summit."

Fortitude of Resolve: "I was never an avid runner, but I set a goal to run a marathon. It was one of the most arduous endeavors I have ever undertaken, but crossing the finish line was a testament to the fortitude of resolve." 

These experiences underscore the dichotomy of the marathon experience, where pain and triumph are inextricably entwined. The marathon is an epic journey that tests the mettle of those who embark upon it, but the rewards of crossing the finish line are immeasurable. As the famous quote goes, "A marathon is a physical and mental panacea." -

"As I navigated through the bustling streets of Mumbai, I was both intimidated and exhilarated by the experience. The Tata Mumbai Marathon is a veritable cacophony of sights, sounds, and emotions, and I was determined to immerse myself in the full experience. The crowd was boisterous, the atmosphere was electric, and the runners were a diverse tapestry of individuals from all walks of life.

The run was challenging, to say the least. The heat was sweltering, the course was demanding, and the physical strain was palpable. But as I pushed myself to the limit, I was heartened by the outpouring of support from the crowd. Spectators cheered, clapped, and encouraged runners with an unbridled fervor that was nothing short of infectious.

As I neared the finish line, I was overcome with a sense of euphoria. The culmination of months of hard work, sacrifice, and dedication was finally paying off. Crossing the finish line was a moment I will cherish forever. The Tata Mumbai Marathon is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, and I am proud to have been a part of it."

"The Tata Mumbai Marathon was a journey of self-discovery and perseverance. The physical pain of barefoot was almost unbearable at times, but the roar of the crowd and my unwavering resolve kept me going. I was inspired by the camaraderie and support of the other runners, and I will never forget the feeling of crossing the finish line." 

"The Tata Mumbai Marathon was a true test of character. The heat was intense, and the course was grueling, the feet were getting numb, the small pebbles had given up as the skin was dead or brain was beyond feeling pain but I was determined to push through. The crowd was a source of unyielding support, and their encouragement fueled me to the finish line. 

"The marathon is a charismatic event. It has everything. It has drama. It has competition. It has camaraderie. It has heroism. Every jogger can't dream of being an Olympic champion, every runner cant run a Boston marathon-but he can dream of finishing a marathon." 

"Marathon running, like golf, is a game for players, not winners. That is why Callaway sells golf clubs and Nike sells running shoes. But running in Tata Mumbai Marathon is unique in that the world's best racers elite marathoners are on the same course, at the same time, as amateurs.

Medals are not achieved on the Race day or D -day, they are pearls of your sweat days before you step on the course.

"The marathon is a perfect metaphor for life: you have to pace yourself, deal with the pain, and enjoy the journey." - Oprah Winfrey, media executive and philanthropist

"The marathon is a testament to the human spirit, to our capacity for endurance and perseverance.A never give up attitude. It is a proof, when the going gets tough the tough ride the wave.

So it was , the crescendo reached when 3 km from finish line major road work in progress had scattered the debris on the road. It was like stepping on glass pieces and nails. Running was impossible, but walking was a torture. I was this is madness, why the hell torture.

And my inner voice said, Its You vs You, make sure YOU WIN and so I did....