Naval Sood's journey into the world of long-distance running is a tale of unexpected beginnings and remarkable achievements. It all started in early 2022 at a TUFFMAN Stadium run in Panchkula, where Sood participated as a crew member. Witnessing people run for hours on end sparked a curiosity and a challenge within him: could he push his body beyond the comfortable 1-2 km runs he was used to?
The Beginning: Volunteering at Running Events
First Volunteering Experience: Naval’s journey in the running community started not on the track, but on the sidelines, as he volunteered for a TUFFMAN Stadium run in Panchkula. This experience provided him with a unique perspective on the dedication and spirit of long-distance runners.
As a volunteer, Sood had the opportunity to observe runners closely, learning about the physical and mental demands of endurance running. Witnessing the perseverance of participants, he gained insights into the importance of motivation and support during such grueling events.
"Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they just have the heart." – Elizabeth Andrew
The First Strides: Awakening the Runner Within
In mid-2022, Naval Sood took on the challenge of the HDOR (Hundred Days of Running) event, a pivotal moment in his running journey. Sood first learned about the HDOR event during a casual meeting with Rajiv Batra ji, a fellow runner and mentor. Intrigued by the concept of running consecutively for a hundred days, he saw it as an opportunity to test his limits and build endurance. Sood began the HDOR with modest distances, focusing on building a habit rather than pushing for speed or excessive distance. The initial days were about adapting his body and schedule to daily running. The challenge enforced a strict routine. Early mornings or late evenings, regardless of weather or personal commitments, Sood dedicated time to his runs, slowly increasing his mileage as the days progressed.
As the event unfolded, Sood noticed significant improvements in his physical capabilities and mental toughness. Running became less of a task and more of a meditative, reflective practice. Not every day was easy. Sood encountered days of low motivation, minor injuries, and fatigue. However, these hurdles taught him the importance of listening to his body, rest, and recovery.
Towards the latter part of the event, Sood began to push his distances further, sometimes even doubling his usual mileage. These were moments of revelation, showcasing his untapped potential. On the final day of HDOR, Sood felt a mix of relief and accomplishment. Completing the challenge was a testament to his commitment and growth as a runner.
The HDOR event was more than a running challenge for Sood; it was a journey of self-discovery and growth. He learned the value of consistency, the power of gradual improvement, and the importance of mental strength.
"The only limits that exist are the ones in your own mind."
The group run on October 2, 2022, marked a significant milestone in Naval Sood's running journey, where he astonishingly covered 21 kilometers, a distance he had never imagined achieving before. Sood received an invitation from his acquaintance, Rajiv Batra ji, to join a group run organized by the Chandigarh Distance Runners (CDR). Though initially apprehensive about the distance, his curiosity and enthusiasm for a new challenge led him to accept the invitation. On the morning of October 2, Sood prepared for the run with a mix of excitement and nervousness. He focused on proper hydration, a light yet energizing breakfast, and a brief warm-up routine.
As Sood joined the group, he was greeted by the familiar faces of Rajiv Batraji, Bobby sir, Krishan Dhul, and Vinod sir. The camaraderie and collective energy of the group provided a comforting start to the run. The first few kilometers were a time of adjustment. Sood paced himself, syncing his rhythm with the group while also paying attention to his body's response to the increasing distance. As the run progressed, Sood faced internal battles. The psychological barrier of surpassing his usual running distance was daunting. However, the supportive environment of the CDR group, coupled with their shared experiences and stories, kept him motivated. Around the halfway mark, Sood began to feel the physical toll. However, he remained focused on maintaining a steady pace, utilizing breathing techniques, and staying hydrated.
Approaching the 15km mark, Sood realized he was about to achieve a personal record. This realization fueled his determination to not only finish but to do so strongly. Upon reaching the 21-kilometer mark, a sense of exhilaration and disbelief washed over Sood. He had completed a half marathon distance, something he had not consciously planned or trained for.
Scaling New Heights: The Full Marathon Experience
The defining moment for Sood came with his first official marathon in Chandigarh. Motivated by his progress and experiences in previous runs, Sood decided to take on his first official marathon. This marathon event was his chosen battleground. In the months leading up to the marathon, Sood embarked on a rigorous training regimen. This included long runs, speed workouts, strength training, and a carefully monitored diet to optimize his performance.
Sood started the race with a steady pace, mindful of conserving energy for the later stages. He soaked in the supportive cheers from spectators and the beauty of Chandigarh's landscape. As he passed the halfway mark, Sood began to face the physical demands of the marathon. He focused on maintaining a consistent pace, staying hydrated, and utilizing energy gels to sustain his endurance. Approaching the last few kilometers, Sood encountered the infamous 'marathon wall' – a point where physical fatigue and mental doubts peak. Drawing upon his training and mental fortitude, he pushed through this challenging phase. The moment Sood crossed the finish line was one of overwhelming emotion and triumph. Completing the marathon symbolized not just the end of a race but the culmination of months of hard work and dedication.
"Injuries may set us back, but they also teach us to run smarter, stronger, and with more heart."
No journey is without its hurdles. Sood faced a significant setback with a knee injury in August. Sood first noticed discomfort in his right knee during a routine run. Initially dismissed as a minor strain, the pain gradually intensified, signaling something more serious. A visit to the doctor and subsequent MRI revealed a knee injury. The diagnosis was a blow to Sood, casting uncertainty over his running future.
The realization that he had to temporarily halt running led to a period of frustration and negativity for Sood. Running had become an integral part of his life, and being sidelined was mentally challenging. Gradually, Sood came to terms with his situation. He understood the importance of giving his body the time to heal to avoid long-term damage.
Naval’s recovery involved a structured rehabilitation plan, including physiotherapy sessions. He engaged in knee-strengthening exercises, focusing on regaining stability and strength. To maintain his fitness, Sood took up cycling and other low-impact exercises. This not only aided his physical recovery but also helped in keeping his spirits high.
The Ultimate Test: 100 Miles Ultra Marathon
Perhaps the most exhilarating chapter in Naval’s journey is his participation in the 100 Miles Border Ultra in Jaisalmer. This grueling event tested not just his physical strength but mental fortitude. Battling harsh conditions, blisters, and fatigue, Naval’s perseverance saw him through to the finish line, a feat he had once thought impossible.
"The miracle isn't that I finished. The miracle is that I dared to start." – John Bingham
This section delves into the detailed, step-by-step account of his experience, capturing every challenge, strategy, and triumph along the way.
Preparation and Anticipation
- Landing in Jaisalmer: Naval’s journey began with his arrival in Jaisalmer. The stark, arid landscape, devoid of greenery and water, immediately set the tone for the challenging run ahead.
- Pre-run Strategy: On the eve of the 100-mile run, Sood focused on mental preparation, discussing strategies, and garnering advice from fellow runners and mentors.
The Marathon Begins: Confronting the Desert
- Start Line Realizations: As he started the run at noon, the reality of the challenge hit hard. The scorching sun, relentless winds, and the intimidating vastness of the desert tested his resolve from the very beginning.
- First 23 Kilometers: The Naval’s initial strategy of a steady run was quickly adapted to the harsh conditions. The strong winds and heat forced him to conserve energy, prompting a shift to a walk-run approach.
Pushing Through: Strategy and Endurance
- 50 Kilometer Milestone: Reaching the first major checkpoint, Sood reassessed his condition. Despite the heat and fatigue, he remained focused, sticking to his planned strategy of alternating between walking and running.
- Nightfall Challenges: As night descended, the marathon took on a new dimension. Visibility dropped drastically, and Sood navigated the narrow desert roads relying solely on his headlamp, all while maintaining his walk-run rhythm.
The Final Stretch: Pain and Perseverance
- Battling Physical Pain: Approaching the last quarter of the race, Sood encountered severe blisters. This physical setback forced him to alter his running stance, a crucial adaptation that allowed him to continue despite the excruciating pain.
- Mental Fortitude: In these final hours, Naval’s mental strength became his greatest ally. Each step was a battle between the urge to stop and the determination to finish what he had started.
Crossing the Finish Line: A Moment of Glory
- The Last Kilometers: With the sun rising again and the end in sight, Naval’s spirits lifted. His pace steadied, driven by the nearness of completion and the support of the running community around him.
- The Finish Line: Crossing the finish line was a moment of unparalleled achievement. Sood completed the 100 miles within 28 hours, a testament to his endurance, willpower, and the relentless spirit of a long-distance runner.
Future Aspirations
Buoyed by this achievement, Sood now sets his sights on further challenges, including the Ironman and a 200km run, proving that his journey as an ultra-marathoner is just beginning.
"Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much." – Helen Keller
The Chandigarh Distance Runners (CDR) community has played a significant role in Naval Sood's evolution as a long-distance runner. This subtopic explores how his involvement with CDR has enriched his running experience, offering support, motivation, and a sense of belonging.
- Initial Introduction: Naval’s first interaction with CDR came during his early days of running. The community, known for its inclusive and supportive nature, provided an ideal platform for him to engage with fellow runners.
- Shared Experiences and Learning: Joining CDR opened up a world of shared experiences, tips, and strategies, vital for a novice runner. Sood benefited greatly from the wisdom and encouragement of seasoned runners within the group.
- Group Runs and Training Sessions: Regular participation in CDR's group runs and training sessions significantly contributed to the Naval’s improved performance. These activities offered structured training while fostering a sense of camaraderie.
- CDR Events and Marathons: Sood actively participated in various events organized by CDR, including local marathons and special running events. These experiences not only honed his running skills but also deepened his bond with the community.
- Organizing and Volunteering: Naval’s involvement extended beyond just participating in runs. He began to play an active role in organizing events and volunteering for various CDR initiatives, contributing to the community's growth and success.
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