In this candid conversation, ultra-marathon runner Ashwini Ganapathi opens up about the solace he finds in running, amidst personal hardships.
Ashwini Ganapathi Completes Tough Deep Japan Ultra Race
Ashwini Ganapathi, a 39-year-old software engineer from Bengaluru, has made history by becoming the first Indian woman to complete the 173 km Deep Japan Ultra, one of Asia's toughest endurance races. The race, which traverses mountain trails and rugged climbs, tested Ganapathi's physical and mental endurance[1].
Ganapathi's interest in running began in school, where she participated in various sports. However, it was a pivotal experience with a simple 10-km run in 2014 that sparked a deep connection to endurance running. This connection led her to overcome both physical and emotional challenges, transforming her life beyond her software career[1].
The Everest Extreme Ultra, a 60 km race at altitudes above 3,400 metres, starting at Everest Base Camp in Nepal, was the most gruelling race for Ganapathi before the Deep Japan Ultra. She participated in the Everest Extreme Ultra as a tribute to her mother, who was battling cancer at the time[1]. Tragically, her mother passed away within three months of the race.
Ganapathi's family has been supportive of her transition to a running career. Running has also been a source of comfort and healing for her, particularly during a complicated emotional relationship with her father[1]. As a vegetarian, Ganapathi had to carry more than 8 kg of essentials, including food and hydration, due to the fish-based meals served at checkpoints[1].
Despite the physical and mental challenges, Ganapathi completed the Deep Japan Ultra in 45 hours and 43 minutes, without any sleep[1]. She has worked with sports psychologists to build mental tools to overcome the challenges faced during endurance runs, which she considers as difficult as the physical ones[1].
Of the 135 participants, only 63 finished the race[1]. Ashwini Ganapathi's resilience and determination have earned her respect in the running community, and she considers running as a loyal friend that has helped her find her way back to herself[1]. Her inspiring story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the transformative effects of running on an individual's life.
[1] Source: Various news reports and personal interviews.
