Where are you from?

Originally Mumbai, India.

Currently Living in Dunellen, NJ.

Current P.R.

3:55:46 (Marathon)

1:37:50 (Half Marathon)

Typical pace

4:15 (9:43/mile) and slower marathons

Number of marathons

11

Occupation

Software Engineer

Favorite marathon

NYC Marathon

Hobbies

Running, Hiking, Travelling, Photography

Favorite Running Food

Pre-Race: Pasta(with lots of veggies)

During Race: Gu Gels, Chews

Post Race: WadaPav(Indian street burger with potato patty)

What are you reading now?

Mindset by Carol Dweck.

Who do you train with?

Local Run Club – Raritan Valley Road Runners, A lot of time I do run solo as well.

Personal goals

For 2024, Run a 50k / loop course for 6 hours.

A quotation you like…

I recently read this quote by Des Linden, “Keep showing up”

Why do you run?

Describe your best marathon memory.

My first marathon was Chicago and I was not well trained for it all (I was basically talked into a marathon), I was doing good until Mile 14 and then the wheels fell apart but I just kept pushing through. As I approached mile 25, I had renewed energy and the whole cheering etc. was just magical, made me felt special. The finish line experience is something that cannot be put into words, it was amazing! To relive the finish line experience, I did go back and volunteer at the finish line of the Chicago Marathon and it was just great to see the smiles on everyone face once they crossed the finish line.

Why do you pace?

Pacing gives me a sense of accomplishment, helping someone achieve their running goals (knowing that everyone is pushing their physical limits and trying to do better with every mile) is just magical and something that always stays with me.

Tell us your best pacing experience.

It was a very impromptu pacing experience, I was volunteering at an aid station for an ultra race, the last runner just came in within few minutes of the cut off. The runner was almost planning to drop out of the race and at that point I jumped in and offered them help, they were already tired and hallucinating and I was like, I really have to help them for their safety as well. Without a second thought, I let my co-volunteer know that I will be running and pushed that runner through. As we were running the last few miles, the runner was constantly thanking me and as soon as we crossed the finish line (with 1 minute remaining on the clock), it was a very emotional experience for the runner and for me personally as I really felt happy seeing the smile and happiness on the runner’s face. The race organizer, the runners family and everyone at the finish line was just happy to see the runner finish, beyond magical.

Why should someone run in your pace group?

I will help you keep the gps related errors out of the way and have fun all along the way.

Miles are easy when accompanied with smiles.

Any tips for runners about to join your group?

Do not worry about race day, training is the hardest part. Remember to hydrate well before the race and just show up. Stay relaxed and listen to your body.

Anything else you’d like to share?

Trust your training, every person is different. Run your own race !

What philanthropic activities do you have?

I like to volunteering and help people. I volunteer at community kitchen on a regular basis and find happiness in helping others.