Ultra running is not for the faint of heart. It requires unwavering determination, mental fortitude, and meticulous preparation. Swati Mittal, a name synonymous with grit and resilience, embarked on her journey into the world of ultra running, conquering incredible distances and pushing her limits. In this blog post, we delve into the fascinating story of Swati Mittal, tracing her path from her first run to her remarkable feat at the Hell Race Border Ultra. We'll explore her struggles, achievements, and the unyielding support of her family that made it all possible.
Swati's First Steps
Swati's journey into the world of ultra running began with a simple goal – to shed some weight and improve her fitness. In 2019, she started with daily 10 km runs on the treadmill, weighing in at 68 kg. Little did she know that these initial steps would lead to an extraordinary odyssey.
The first event she participated in was a 10 km run, and it was raining heavily that day. Swati and her husband Gautam Mittal registered, unsure if anyone else would brave the rain. To their surprise, many others joined, providing the motivation they needed to complete the race. This was just the beginning.
The Transition to Ultra Running
After dipping her toes into the world of running, Swati ventured into ultra running. Her first milestone was the TUFFMAN relay run for two hours, which left her exhausted. She initially thought she'd never run for more than one hour in her life. However, local events and podium finishes in 10 km races encouraged her to aim higher.
Swati's leap from 6-hour practice runs to attempting a 12-hour event was inspired by the encouragement of her fellow runners, including Kaura Sir and Kashyap Sir. Their belief in her capabilities propelled her forward. Her Sunday ultra practice runs in the Panchkula stadium, reaching distances of 65 kilometers, provided a solid foundation.
The Quest for the TUFFMAN Title
Swati's determination wasn't limited to just running; she had her sights set on winning the TUFFMAN title. Her goal was to achieve a distance of over 80 km in 12 hours, a prerequisite for the TUFFMAN title. This title held immense significance for her, and she pushed herself to reach this milestone. She was ready for the challenge. However, the journey didn't end there. Swati aimed even higher, setting her sights on a 100 km race, a test of endurance like no other.
The Pinnacle of Ultra Running
Swati's journey toward the 100 km mark was marked by fluctuations in body weight, the impact of COVID-19, and personal commitments. But her dedication to her fitness remained unwavering. She faced setbacks and frustration but found solace in her gym workouts, where she focused on shedding weight and regaining her form.
Finally, in 2023, Swati achieved her goal of completing a 100 km run, finishing in 14 hours and 10 minutes. She became the only woman to register and complete the race, earning a podium spot. Her remarkable achievement was a testament to her unyielding spirit and relentless pursuit of her goals.
With the right support and unwavering determination, anything is possible in the world of endurance sports.
The Hell Race Border Ultra: A Different Challenge
Despite her success in 100 km races, Swati chose to participate in the Hell Race Border Ultra at the 50 km distance. The unique challenges of the race, the isolated and desolate route, and the uncertainties of a new environment posed a different set of obstacles. She recognized the importance of proper preparation for such races, and her experience taught her to be adaptable and resilient.
Strategies for Success
- Mental strength is a key component of ultra-running. Swati firmly believes that mental fortitude is often more critical than physical strength in conquering extreme distances.
- Swati emphasizes the importance of pacing oneself during ultra-races. Her advice is to start at a manageable pace and take planned breaks to maintain consistency.
- Nutrition plays a crucial role in ultra-running. Swati recommends a well-thought-out nutrition strategy to ensure sustained energy levels during the race.
The Three Pillars of Swati's Running Journey
Husband Gautam Mittal: Gautam has been an integral part of her running journey. His unwavering support, encouragement, and belief in her abilities have played a pivotal role in her success. Swati's dedication to running is a testament to the strong bond she shares with her spouse, who has been her pillar of strength throughout her athletic endeavors.
Kashyap Sir: Kashyap sir is more than just a coach; he's a mentor and guide who has consistently nurtured Swati's talent. His expertise in running and training has helped Swati improve her performance and achieve remarkable results. Kashyap sir's coaching and mentorship have been instrumental in shaping Swati into the accomplished ultra-runner she is today.
Kaura Sir's Belief: Kaura Sir's unwavering belief in Swati's potential has been a driving force behind her success. His constant support and encouragement have given Swati the confidence to take on challenges like the Hell Race Border. Kaura sir's belief in her abilities has ignited Swati's determination to reach new heights in the world of ultra-running.
The Power of CDR Support
Swati's conversation reveals the significance of support from fellow runners from her extended family CDR. The motivation and encouragement she received from her co-runners and supporters played a vital role in her success.
One key figure who has played an instrumental role in Swati's journey is Paveela Prashar Bali, the founder of The Run Club. Paveela has been a constant source of support and motivation, guiding Swati through her running endeavors.
Looking Towards the Future
Swati's aspirations don't end with her achievements at the Hell Race Border. Swati Mittal, an unstoppable force in the world of long-distance running, is setting her sights on even more remarkable challenges in the future. As she looks towards the horizon, her aspirations include conquering a 100-mile ultra marathon within a 24-hour stadium run and achieving the coveted Sub-4 marathon time in India's major cities, Bombay and Delhi
Her determination to keep pushing her boundaries showcases her commitment to the sport and her continuous pursuit of excellence.
Swati Mittal's incredible journey through the Hell Race Border is a testament to the power of determination and the invaluable support of loved ones. Her three pillars—her dear husband, Kashyap sir, and Kaura sir—have been instrumental in her success. As Swati continues to aim for new horizons in the world of ultra-running, her story serves as an inspiration to all aspiring athletes.
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