Built on the Hard Days

Some runs are about speed. Some runs are about proving something. From clocking a 3:15 full marathon in Delhi — pushing into the top 4% ranking overall, one of the fastest non-pro finishes out of Kolkata in the Full Marathon distance — in poor AQI conditions, to standing at the start line again in Gurugram with the air just as unforgiving and my body far from its best. Heavy head. Congestion. Body not ready. Legs not as sharp as they should be. But the mind? Still locked in. That day wasn’t about a PB. It was about showing up when it’s uncomfortable, when everything feels slightly off, when even the air doesn’t help you. And somehow… 11th in age category. 34th overall. Not every win looks like a finish line photo or a personal best. Some look like grit, discomfort, and choosing to go through it anyway. This journey isn’t perfect. But it’s mine — and I’m still building.