In the world of marathon running, one often encounters stories of people overcoming personal barriers and achieving what seemed impossible. Today, we delve deep into the story of Kanan Jain, a young man who has redefined determination, perseverance, and the art of dreaming big. This story is from the conversation had on the Find Your Ultra podcast.
Beginnings: A Firework of Ambition
To understand Kanan's journey, one needs to appreciate his perspective on race. "A race is like a firework, in the end, it only matters how bad you want it," Kanan often says. Drawing parallels between the pain and endurance required in marathons to fireworks, he emphasizes that training isn't about escaping the pain; it's about embracing it and pushing through.
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The Conception of a Dream
In 2017, a 19-year-old Kanan stumbled upon the Belfast 24-hour World Championship. While most would be intimidated or overwhelmed, Kanan's reaction was different. He thought, "Why not shoot for the stars?". The audacity of this dream, especially for someone relatively new to the running community, might seem astonishing. But for Kanan, it was about seeing an opportunity and seizing it.
Journey of Transformation
Vipin Sharma, the host and a significant figure in Kanan's life, recounted their early interactions. Vipin was impressed by Kanan's relentless curiosity and unwavering dedication. From being an average runner to transitioning into an elite athlete, Kanan's story is a testament to the power of setting your sights high and working diligently towards your goals.
However, Kanan's introduction to the world of ultra-marathons was anything but smooth. His first 100k at Bhatti took him almost 18 hours. But instead of being disheartened, he saw it as a learning experience. It solidified his resolve and gave him a clearer picture of the path ahead.
Guiding Lights: Apurva & Alfredo Miranda (Alfie)
No story of achievement is complete without acknowledging the mentors and well-wishers. For Kanan, two individuals played a pivotal role. Apurva, a stalwart in the running community, was an initial guiding figure. Their meeting during a race at Bhatti Lakes was the beginning of a deep bond of friendship and mentorship.
Alfredo Miranda, popularly known as Alfie, is another influential figure in Kanan's journey. A Spanish expat based in Delhi, Alfie's coaching techniques and vast experience in the running community have helped many, including Kanan, reach their potential.
The Beginning
It all began with a simple conversation between Kanan and Apurva. Two individuals, unknown in the world of ultra-running, harbored a conspiracy - a dream that was massive. They discussed the idea of trying out for the Indian team. During the Gurgaon to India Gate run, plans were laid out. Kanan crafted a roadmap for Apurva, assuring her that he would handle everything from nutrition to training. This marked Apurva's first long run, a significant 25 kilometers, setting the stage for what was to come.
Building Momentum
Alfie entered the picture after their initial plan. In January 2019, Kanan approached Alfie after achieving third place in a 24-hour run at Delhi Stadium. Having already run 182 kilometers, Kanan had his sights set on reaching the 205-kilometer mark to qualify for the Indian team.
With the guidance and influence of mentors like Meenal Ma'am and Alfie, Kanan discovered the world of night runs. It was an eye-opener, a game-changer. One such night, he covered a staggering 95 kilometers in a 15-hour run. This discipline, drive, and determination soon became his signature style.
The Training Regime
Kanan's dedication was evident in his rigorous training routine. Despite juggling college and a part-time job, he consistently logged in more than 180 kilometers a week. His training wasn't just about physical stamina; it was a mental game too. Drawing motivation from content creators, podcasts, and the burning desire to have the Indian team's jersey in his wardrobe, Kanan pushed boundaries.
The Game-Changer
The Bangalore qualifier was a pivotal moment. Training for it began in January, with Kanan setting a target of running 512 laps. When the day arrived, Kanan achieved precisely what he set out to do - he ran 512 laps.
The aftermath was tough, with Kanan bedridden for days. Yet, the feeling of accomplishment and the realization that he'd made it to the national team overshadowed the pain. The dream that once seemed arrogant was now a reality.
A Moment of Triumph
Talking about the feeling when he achieved his goal, Kanan said, "I was on top of the world." As the youngest member of his team, the weight of responsibility and expectations was massive. But the sacrifices made, from missing out on college parties to late-night training sessions, all seemed worth it when he stood at the pinnacle of success.
The Bond with Apurva
Kanan's bond with Apurva, another rising star in the running arena, is worth mentioning. Their shared dreams and mutual support have been pivotal in their journey. When Apurva became the first Indian woman to run 200 km, it wasn't just her victory, but a testament to their collective dedication and hard work.
The Decision to Step Back
One of the most intriguing decisions in Kanan's journey was his choice to step back from ultra-running. Instead of aiming for longer distances, Kanan shifted his focus to becoming faster at shorter distances. This strategic move was based on extensive research and consultations with elite runners across the globe.
Training for Perfection
Kanan's current training regime is a blend of speed runs, easy days, and long steady runs. And while he emphasizes the importance of physical training, he also stresses the significance of adequate sleep and recovery.
The Future Beckons
When asked about his goals, Kanan shared his aspiration to run a fast full marathon. Though he refrains from putting a specific time label on it, there's a fire in his eyes that speaks of his determination. Given his past achievements and unwavering dedication, the future indeed looks promising for this young athlete.
A Glimpse into Kanan's Personal Bests
Kanan's running journey is anything but ordinary. A few years back, his personal bests (PB) for the 5-kilometer distances were clocked at an impressive 18 minutes and 20 seconds. When asked if he had ever fathomed achieving this pace four years ago, his response echoed surprise and disbelief. Yet, Kanan's ambitions don't stop here. He's now eyeing a sub-17-minute record.
The Evolution of Pace
Reflecting on the past, Kanan recalls a time when achieving such a pace seemed like a distant dream. From taking three hours for long runs to aiming for a pace of 17:45, he's come a long way. And as time progresses, he believes these numbers will continue to evolve. A year from now, with consistent training and dedication, Kanan is confident he'll be sharing even more impressive milestones.
Mind Over Matter
One of the most profound insights from Kanan's journey is his belief in the power of the mind. When asked if anyone could achieve a sub-3-hour marathon, he emphasized that "sub-3 is just a number." The real challenge lies in fostering the right mindset. Believing in oneself, dreaming big, and visualizing success is pivotal. In Kanan's words, "Whether it's a sub 3 or 2 or 24 hours or anything from 5k to 10k, you need to write it down." This daily ritual of seeing and reminding oneself of their goals is a powerful motivator for him.
No Shortcuts to Success
Kanan's conversation with Sir Ullas, India's second-fastest runner for 24 hours, revealed a simple yet profound truth: There are no shortcuts to success. The elite level athletes have dedicated a significant portion of their lives to the sport. This commitment, often spanning over a decade, is a testament to their passion and perseverance.
Key Takeaways from Kanan Jain
For those amateur runners aiming to elevate their game, Kanan offers some invaluable advice:
Belief: First and foremost, believe in yourself and your capabilities.Visualization: Write down your goals and review them daily. Make them a part of your daily ritual.Commitment: Training is essential, but so is dedicating emotional and mental energy towards your goal.Enjoyment: Love the process. If you aren't enjoying it, sustaining the sport becomes challenging.
The Joy in the Journey
While the rigorous training sessions can be daunting, Kanan finds joy in the process. Starting a session might be challenging, but the satisfaction derived post-completion is unparalleled. There's a unique sense of accomplishment in completing a workout while the rest of the world is still asleep.
My Perspective on Kanan Jain - From the Desk of Technical Muscle
Kanan Jain emerges as an incredibly determined and passionate individual in the world of marathon running. His story is one of rapid transformation, resilience, and an indomitable spirit. Here are some perspectives on Kanan Jain:
Ambitious Dreamer: Starting from a novice's understanding of marathon running to setting his sights on world championships, Kanan's ambition stands out. He's not afraid to dream big, even when the odds might seem stacked against him.
Mental Fortitude: Running long distances, especially ultramarathons, is as much a mental challenge as it is a physical one. Kanan's ability to endure a 100k race as one of his initial forays into the sport speaks volumes about his mental strength.
Continuous Learner: Kanan's journey showcases his eagerness to learn. From peppering Vipin Sharma with questions to seeking guidance from mentors like Apurva and Alfie, he is always looking to improve and grow.
Inspiration to Others: Kanan's story is not just about personal achievement; it serves as inspiration for many others in the running community and beyond. His journey from being an average runner to aiming for elite status is a testament to what dedication and hard work can achieve.
Community-Oriented: His interactions with the Sun Chasers and his bond with figures like Apurva and Alfie highlight the importance he places on community and mentorship. Kanan understands the value of being part of a supportive community and the role it plays in personal growth.
Adaptive & Resilient: Despite facing challenges, such as not meeting his target time in the Bhatti 100 miles, Kanan showcases adaptability and resilience. Instead of being disheartened, he uses such experiences as stepping stones towards greater goals.
In essence, Kanan Jain is a beacon of determination, ambition, and continuous growth. His story serves as a powerful reminder that with the right mindset, guidance, and community support, one can achieve remarkable feats.
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