Kolkata: Kolkata-based Asif Iqbal, visually impaired, is gearing up for the Tata Mumbai Marathon 2025.
He ran his first half marathon in the Tata Mumbai Marathon 2023 and later in 2024.
This year he will be running his first full marathon with his two buddy runners who will help to achieve the target time.
His target is to finish the marathon in 5 hours and 50 minutes, maintaining an 8:15 pace throughout the race.
His strategy includes sticking to a nutrition plan with energy gels to keep his body fueled.
“For me, the marathon isn’t just a race. It’s a chance to show myself and the world that the limits we think we have are just in our minds,” Asif said.
A key aspect of his training involves leveraging technology. He uses a watch that provides real-time audio updates on his pace, average time, and distance.
Meanwhile, music plays continuously from a wireless speaker attached to the waist of his buddy runner, allowing him to know the exact position of the Buddy runners.
His training is intense. He runs three times a week, following a strict schedule set by his coach, and does long runs every Sunday with his buddy runner, Sumit Das. Recently, Asif completed his first practice full marathon, which is a huge achievement. It’s been a seven-year journey, marked by consistent dedication and hard work.
“I’ve spent years building up to this. It’s not just about the race — it’s about the commitment and consistency it took to get here,” he shares.
Last year, he finished the half marathon in 2 hours 48 mins in Mumbai and in TSW 25K Kolkata he finished 25K in 3 hours 15 mins.
“I’ve learned that it’s not just about strength — it’s about the mind. If I’m focused and prepared, I know I can achieve my goal,” Asif explained.
The upcoming Tata Mumbai Marathon is going to be a special edition, with the Asia’s largest marathon completing 20 glorious years.
