Running Through Challenges: What Mumbai Marathon 2025 Taught Me

Tata Mumbai Marathon 2025 was nothing short of extra-‘ordinary’. As the #MahaKumbh for runners in India, #TMM2025 celebrated its 20th edition this year, setting the stage for a grand and memorable event. Few marathons in across the world boast such a legacy of consistency and prestige.

My journey with TMM began in 2019 when I completed my first half marathon in 1:55—a personal best and my inaugural sub-2 finish. It was an unforgettable experience, achieving a milestone in a city that breathes life into the running community.

A Pause, A Restart

The next three years were consumed by the whirlwind of COVID-19. My focus shifted to pandemic management efforts with the government, leaving little time for running. It wasn’t until 2023 that I resumed active running, participating in 10Ks and half marathons with the goal of finishing strong rather than chasing timings. Alongside, I incorporated consistent strength training, which proved to be a game-changer.

A Tale of Determination: TMM 2024

By early 2024, even though I had not trained under a running coach, I felt confident enough to tackle a full marathon. Having transitioned to 'Vibram' barefoot-style footwear, I felt I was all set to achieve a sub-4 finish. Everything seemed perfect until the 28th kilometre, when a safety pin from another runner’s bib pierced my right foot. Limping through the remaining 14 kilometres, I finished in 5:20—a far cry from my goal. Worse, I developed an anterior ankle impingement, rendering me unable to walk properly for weeks.

Yet, resilience triumphed over adversity. With active recovery, shifting from barefoot to shoes, and a renewed zeal, I returned to running within six weeks, training harder and smarter than ever before.

Building Momentum

The comeback story gained traction with consecutive sub-50 finishes in 10K races in Bengaluru (47 and 48 minutes) and a sub-50 at the TCS 10K (49 minutes). Half marathons in Bengaluru saw me clocking sub-1:50 finishes, while a 30K in Mysuru at a good pace of 3 hours. A training full marathon in Bengaluru ended at 4:20. By the time I completed the Delhi Half Marathon in 1:42—a new PB—and a Kolkata 25K in 2:02, completed the Procam Slam, all with self-training. I was brimming with confidence for TMM 2025, could see an easy sub-4 finish.

Race Day: Humidity and Hard Lessons

Mumbai welcomed us with 70-80% humidity, a brutal challenge even for seasoned runners. My nutrition gels faced last-minute issues, forcing me to switch to alternatives. Despite these hurdles, I started strong, pacing with the 3:30 bus until the 19th kilometre. Completing the halfway mark in 1:55, I aimed for a negative split to finish the race in under 3:45.

But the marathon had other plans. By the 27th kilometre, cramps seized my right hamstring and soon extended to my right glute and left hamstring. Realizing I had overestimated my hydration and training, I slowed down significantly, abandoning my sub-4 goal to avoid injury. Crossing the finish line in 4:23—a personal best for an official marathon—was bittersweet.

The scenes at the finish line were sobering. Ambulances ferried collapsed runners, with some hospitalised and even in ICU. News reports later revealed over 2,000 participants sought medical aid, with one pacer suffering a heart attack.

Takeaways for Every Runner

1. Train for Adversity: Simulate race-day conditions in your training—hot, humid, and hilly if necessary.
2. Holistic Fitness Matters: Strength, flexibility, and mobility are as crucial as endurance. Don’t neglect your hips, knees, and ankles.
3. Nutrition is Key: Carb-loading and hydration go beyond consuming water and calories. Consult a coach or experienced athlete.
4. Get Professional Guidance: Self-training is not enough for endurance sports. A coach can help you avoid critical mistakes.
5. Stick to the Familiar: On race day, avoid experimenting with new gear, nutrition, or pacing strategies.
6. Listen to Your Body: Confidence should never override caution. If your body signals distress, slow down.

Final Thoughts

"The marathon teaches you to push beyond limits, but it also humbles you to respect your body."

While TMM 2025 didn’t pan out as envisioned, it was a treasure trove of lessons and unforgettable memories. As I return home, I am already setting my sights on TMM 2026, determined to come back stronger and better prepared, sub-4 still on the cards.

"Every finish line is the start of a new journey."