Long distance athletics in India is not too common, outside pro ranks, pros being defined as those that have been groomed for ages through governmental agencies, that fund these athletes. Amateur athletics is definitely picking up, but the pace is slow. The most popular long distance sport in India is probably running (because it requires the least amount of expensive equipment and training ambiance). Triathlon is not a common sport in India, at all. Long distance triathlon is almost unheard of.
In 2005, I decided that only the ultimate challenge would motivate me to stay fit around here. Before that, I was a jack of all trades, playing any sport, just to beat the winter blues, or to meet some cool people who loved endorphins. In less than 19 months, I have participated in a handful of long-distance triathlons, with my results improving steadily. In the local run-races, I usually place in the top three amateurs, with my best result being in the Mumbai half-marathon, where I placed 1st amateur and 9th overall. Besides this, my marathon times in an Ironman are better than those of the amateur winners of the Bangalore Marathon, in 2006.
I don't consider it a great achievement to be the "first Indian woman"
to have participated in Ironman length races but, I do consider it an
achievement to be moving up the age-group ranks, at these international
races, given where I train. I further believe that I have caught the sports bug, rather seriously.
I have set my sights on the Ironman World Championships and the year 2012 for,
after all, what is a "world" without India in it?
I have to beat a lot of stereotypes to make these dreams, realities but, the alternative of not trying is too unacceptable! Wish me luck!
