Auroville Marathon
Have you ever experienced the refreshing sensation of cool forest air brushing against your face, or inhaled the invigorating scent of medicinal trees while running? If you seek to immerse yourself in such an experience, then the "Auroville Marathon" is the perfect choice for you. Held annually on the second Sunday of February, this marathon is a must-try for all running enthusiasts, as it takes you through the tranquil and harmonious city of Auroville.When it comes to running marathons, my primary goal is always to "smile and enjoy the run." While many of my veteran marathoner friends aim to surpass their personal bests, I don't set such targets for myself. Simply running a marathon fills me with joy and a sense of fulfillment. To me, the ultimate achievement is inspiring my friends to register and run alongside me.
As John Elliott says, "And, most importantly, remember what got you running in the first place and use the marathon to keep you inspired and to become an inspiration to others."
In my latest blog post, I shared about my roommate and friend Ramya's decision to take on the challenge of running in the Auroville Marathon. As a first-time marathon participant (I would even say walker), completing a 10K seemed like an achievable goal. However, for Ramya, who often complains about walking just 2KMS from Forum to Maruthi Nagar, it was a daunting task. I was pleasantly surprised when Ramya expressed her interest in signing up for the 10K Auroville Marathon. Running on a trail comprised of beautiful roads and forest would undoubtedly be enjoyable, but it required tremendous willpower to complete.
On race day, we woke up well before sunrise, had a strong cup of tea, and drove to the Auroville city. The event has quickly become one of my favorites due to its unique experience of running on forest trails while celebrating the spirit of sportsmanship.
It's no surprise that the Auroville Marathon has become a beloved event for recreational runners all across India.
