Chennai Marathon - 2010

The name Marathon comes from the legend of Pheidippides, a Greek messenger. The legend states that he was sent from the battlefield of Marathon to Athens to announce that the Persians had been defeated in the Battle of Marathon (in which he had just fought), which took place in August or September, 490 BC. It is said that he ran the entire distance without stopping and burst into the assembly, exclaiming “Νενικήκαμεν” (Nenikékamen, ‘We have won.’) before collapsing and dying. The marathon is a long-distance foot race with an official distance of 42.195 kilometres (26 miles and 385 yards), that is usually run as a road race.

With this historic back ground running behind my mind, Supervalu Project Manager Murali invited me to join the Chennai Marathon 2010. The word Marathon brought butterflies in me as I can never imagine running a 42.195 KM. Murali gave me a peace mind stating that we are participating in the 5Km Corporate Run. Now I could relax!

Woke up at 4am Sunday morning and reached the Marina Beach. My first impression was; Wow! Chennai’s spirit is here!! From kids to elders, one could find people from all walks of life and all parts of the Tamil Nadu state were there. For me, standing in the middle of the beach road in itself was a joy to hold. Otherwise who will allow me to run free in this VIP road.

Supervalu team associates had a festive time, I should say. Around 30 associates participated. Each posing against one another for photographs and yelling with joy. One could witness the joy and josh bubbling out. This team seem to be a crowd puller!! Their DGM Samir went on for a half marathon. He is a regular runner and seem to be a fitness freak.

The Sports authority of Tamil Nadu had organized it in a nice manner with NCC, Police and Medical fraternity giving the supporting hand. So, how was my run? I rather walked and occasionally ran. Still I completed my 5Km run. Good right??

Kenya’s Augustine Ronoh claimed the top honours clocking 2 hours 14 minutes and 5 seconds.

Thanks to Murali and SPORTS DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY OF TAMIL NADU for giving this opportunity to run and get awed by the spirit of humanity!!

Sure, I’m going to be participating in much more events of this nature!