Women's Marathon: Running for a cause

Last minute decisions at times gives one a satiated feeling of having done something worthwhile and making a difference to the society. Running the DNA Women's marathon last Sunday dated 11.3.12 was one such instance.

It was hardly a month since I ran the Standard Chartered Mumbai Half marathon when my body was gradually recovering from the strenuous 21 km run. I had a few people coming up to me asking me if I was running in the Women's half marathon conducted by DNA. Not upto another 21 km stretch, I shrugged it off saying next year. However a chance browsing on the net made me learn of the other 2 categories in the marathon- the spirit run of 10 km and the fun run of 5 km. As I read about the causes asscociated, I was all geared up for the 10 km run.

Contacts did come in handy as my husband helped me to register for participation and my confirmation came within a couple of days. I had signed up to support Girl child education, being a counselor and a writer. I strongly believe that education is that tool which eradicates darkness and enables even a blind person to see the world through different perspectives.

Finally the D day arrived. The race was scheduled to begin around 7:30 and all the participants were asked to assemble 1 hour prior the race. The Sun had hardly come out when we reached Bandra Kurla complex. It was good to see a lot of women from all walks of life to come and run for a good cause. Housewives, working women, college goers, the young and old seem to form a bond that day. The day started with a few warm up sessions by Mickey Mehta-the renowned fitness Guru. After which we huddled at the starting line and the run commenced. I switched on my ipod and held a gatorade in one hand. I ran, hoping that my hard work and training dont go down the drain.

The spirit of running a marathon is something even words cannot describe. Running for a cause this time made it even special as somehow gave me the boost everytime my energy levels would drop low. My faithful companion-gatorade gave me a gentle push prodding silently that I could do it. The cheering crowd was another encouraging factor. Hearing and seeing them cheer for us seem to give me wings on my feet. On the way I saw a group marching in support of saving the girl child. The friendly waves and smiles keeps a runner jubilant and geared up throughout any run.

I soon reached the finish line and was asked to step aside stating my name and the cause I was supporting. To my surprise, I was told that I was 5th overall and had completed the run in 50 mins. I walked back to the grounds where my husband was waiting for me. He was thrilled and proud of my achievement. I saw down near the refreshment area and relaxed for a while. After freshning up, I took a picture with the banner, gave a short interview with Radio city and walked towards the stage. The crowd was eager to catch a glimpse of the celebrities who were present there. Deepika Padukone, Tara Sharma were amongst them.

After a while, we left. I was feeling the runners high, glad I could make a difference in a small way. It was a good initiative taken by DNA to support causes like Cervical cancer and public safety for women as well. The spirit of Mumbai that is often cited in the media can be undoubtedly seen here especially during such marathons. Hopefully next year we have more women coming together and making a difference!