
Murali Gaddam
Bengaluru
Running Group: MG Runners
Hello All, this is Murali Gaddam from Bangalore. My running journey started with TCS World 10k in 2010 (earlier called Sunfeast 10k). I have participated in this event from 2010 every year, used to train for this event for 2 to 3 months, to ensure I am in the top 800.
Started to train for longer distances from 2016, through consistent running and strength training my pace improved drastically. So far I have run 18200 kms. Got podiums in different events through my running journey, some notable ones are Ooty Ultra 2019, first place in 60kms category, First place in Munnar Marathon in 2019, Team First place in Oxfam 50 kms, First place in Thump 2022 in 30 kms, 2nd place in TRORT 50 kms, 3rd place in Midnight Marathon in 2018. And many more age category podiums....
Wanted to give back to the running community so helping in pacing folks if I am not racing the event. Inspired & motivated many friends, colleagues and gym partners to start running. Currently training some of energetic & dynamic runners in the neighbourhood to unravel their true running potential as principal coach for MG Runners.
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Amit Kumar Yadav
Mumbai
Running Group: Happy Feet Champions
I am Amit Kumar Yadav, Serving in Indian Navy Civil services (Naval Dockyard Mumbai)
- NIS and AFI certified Athletic Coach.
- Advanced Mountaineer (certified From HMI Darjeeling)
- Head Coach in Happy feet champions. (Happy feet champions having more than 120+ runners offline & online)
- Four Times Comrades marathon finisher-year 2018,2019,2022 and 2023 (including 3 Bill Rowan medal -sub 9 hours finisher -with personal best of 08 hrs 48 mnt)
- Finished 49th Official Full marathon till now with personal best timing of 03 hrs 18mnt )This FM is going to my 50th oficial Full marathon.
- 36 hours Bengaluru stadium run -189.2km ...
- 24 hours stadium run Finisher-3 times with personal best 162 km)
- 12 hours stadium run -10 times with personal best 111.2km)
- Masters Games (National level)Gold medalist in 5000 mtr &10000mtr )-6 Times. 'Long distance running is 90% mental and the the other half is physical' Running is all about positive frame of mind .stay positive,work hard & make it happen.

Anirudha Anant Athani
Nashik
Running Group: ActivNRG Athletic Club
I am located in Nashik. I am basically an engineer and have worked in the manufacturing sector for almost 2 decades. When I ran my first half-marathon in 2012, little did I know that my whole life was destined to take a turn in a completely different direction. My love for the sport grew and I got more and more involved in many different aspects of the sport - as an Ultra Marathoner, Comrades finisher, Boston Qualifier, a Running coach, a Marathon pacer and recently a World Athletics Accredited Route measurer. It's no wonder that Running is now a big part of my life.
I believe it is important to be fit but equally, if not more important to be healthy! Since the past few years as a qualified Health coach, I have been helping my trainees to also focus on achieving good metabolic health in addition to achieving their potential as a runner...
The Hyderabad Marathon has a special place in my heart, having run my first Full Marathon here in 2014. Since then I have been coming back to run at Hyderabad year after year, not just because of the challenging course but for experiencing the warm and friendly vibes and the superb organisation. I have run the FM at Hyderabad 7 times till date. I did my first half-marathon pacing assignment in 2014, and have been regularly pacing Half and Full Marathons ever since. I have paced the 4:00 bus at Tata Mumbai Marathon (2019, 2020), the 3:45 bus at TMM 2023 and the 4:30 bus at Hyderabad Marathon (2017, 2018 & 2019). Running and pacing at Hyderabad is always very exciting, and I look forward to pacing the 4:00 hrs bus this year. A Sub-4 hr at Hyderabad is a very challenging time, and it is recommended that participants of this bus be presently capable of running a 1:46 or faster HM on a flat course (or 1:53 on a hilly course like Hyderabad). Of course we will have a detailed strategy and implement it correctly in order to achieve the goal. The first 9 km around the Hussain Sagar lake will be the key. The idea is to use the cool morning, fresh legs and flat terrain to run fast at just the right pace to bank time without getting tired. Thereafter we would be running at the pace appropriate to the terrain, i.e. faster on declines and slower on inclines with strategic walk breaks in order to finish on time within 4 hours. See you at Hyderabad and good luck with your training!
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Vijayan Pillai
Kochi
Running Group: Soles of Cochin
I started running around 2013 with a 5 Mile fit4life event organised in the city. Got bitten by the running bug after the finish and joined the newly formed Soles of Cochin Runners Club. It was fun training with the team participating in the events running with the group. The distances moved from 5 Mile to HM and beyond. 3.40 is my best Marathon time and 130 K is the longest run that I have done. Over the past few years, I have become more of a trail runner.
I along with our group of runners from Soles of Cochin always looked forward to the Hyderabad Marathon. I have participated in 4 editions of Hyderabad and based on my experience would like to say that it is easily the best road running event in the whole of India....
If you are running only one Marathon in a year, then Hyderabad is the place to be. The professional manner in the way the event is organised by Hyderabad Runners and the support from the Children lining up on course are the reasons to come back to Hyderabad year after year.I began my pacing journey with the 4.30 bus at Hyderabad last year. I have been pacing my fellow runners at Cochin and elsewhere post the first experience.
I plan to finish the first half in 2 Hr 10 minutes and the second half in 2 Hr 20 Minutes. The first 10 K being flat around the lake would be doing it at 6.05/km pace. The next 10 K has some inclines and propose to slow down to about 6.25/km. The next 10 K has some downs as well as inclines. Would move at 6.15/km on the downs and at 6.45/km on the inclines doing a run walk plan. Remaining distance would be covered at a steady pace of 6.25/km. The pace plan includes 10 s water break at Aid stations depending on your preference.
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Sanjeev Kumar A
Hosur, Tamil Nadu
Running Group: The 5:20 Club
I am an avid runner who finds joy and fulfilment in the rhythm of my feet hitting the pavement. Over the years, running has become an integral part of my life, shaping my physical and mental well-being. I have participated in numerous races, from local 5Ks to half marathons to full marathons and many ultra marathons. Each race has been a unique experience, pushing my limits.
It will be my first time running this iconic course, and I am filled with a mix of excitement and anticipation. The Hyderabad marathon is known for its picturesque route, winding through the city's vibrant streets, historic landmarks, and breathtaking landscapes. The experience of running through the heart of Hyderabad will be truly unforgettable, and it will leave a lasting impression in my running journey....
In addition to my passion for running, I have recently ventured into the world of pacing. This is my first time as a pacer in the Hyderabad marathon. Pacing involves guiding and motivating fellow runners to achieve their desired finish times during a race. It will be an immensely rewarding experience, as I get to contribute to the success and happiness of other runners. Although I am relatively new to pacing, I have found great fulfilment in helping others reach their goals while sharing my love for running.
Looking ahead to the forthcoming NMDC Hyderabad Marathon 2023, my pacing strategy will revolve around maintaining a steady and consistent pace throughout the race. I believe in the importance of starting off conservatively to ensure that energy is conserved for the later stages of the marathon. I will encourage runners to find a comfortable rhythm that allows them to settle into their pace without burning out too quickly. As a pacer, my role will be to provide constant motivation and reassurance, reminding runners to stay focused on their individual goals and reminding them of the milestones they have accomplished.
In conclusion, running has shaped my life in countless ways, and the Hyderabad marathon will hold a special place in my heart. As I embark on my journey as a pacer, I am excited to share my love for running and help others achieve their goals. The forthcoming NMDC Hyderabad Marathon 2023 presents an opportunity for me to connect with the running community, inspire fellow runners, and contribute to the collective celebration of human endurance and perseverance. Together, let us lace up our shoes, embrace the challenge, and make this marathon an unforgettable experience for all.
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Shailendra Singh Bisht
Hyderabad
Running Group: Hyderabad Runners (Peerancheruvu Runners)
Shailendra has completed Sixteen full marathons and multiple Ultramarathons including Malnad Ultra 2018 and Khardung la Challenge 2017 . His running philosophy is to enjoy injury free running.
Shailendra has been a regular pacer at Hyderabad Marathon over the last seven years for 5:30 and 5:00 FM buses and has shared trials and tribulations of finishing a full marathon with many fellow runners.
5 Hr FM pacing strategy is to keep it simple by maintaining a positive split (one minute slower average pace in second half) with adequate hydration stops and walking breaks over inclines....
He is currently a faculty in Marketing and Strategy at IBS Hyderabad and has keen interest in research and consulting at the interface of Marketing, Digital Transformation and Public Policy. He lives in Hyderabad with his wife Archana and daughter Aru and occasionally treks in Garhwal Himalayas. He writes a weekly newsletter on Running Platform Marketing Life
Come enjoy a splendid running tour of Hyderabad as you run with him !
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Dr Anup Rajan
Palakkad, Kerala
Running Group: Fort Runners Palakkad
Hello Runners,Myself Dr Anup Rajan from Fort Runners Palakkad. I started running in the year 2017 to reduce weight.Never ever in my wildest dreams I thought of becoming a runner.But as they say Running is like Mafia,once you get inside you can't get outside. The bug got into me after my first HM at cochin in 2018.Then there was no turning back.From an 2.45Hm to 1.50Hm and 5hr FM to 4.20 FM.Running for me is like meditation..Hyderabad marathon is one of my favourite marathons.This is my third consecutive year at Hyderabad marathon.As a pacer this is my first FM assignment.I look forward to run the first half of the race in 2.25hrs and second half in 2.35hrs..Looking forward!!

Mona Balyan
Hyderabad
Running Group: Hyderabad Runners
'She was a runner!' The words that I would want to go on my epitaph. Running is meditation, one foot ahead ,leaving a thousand negative thoughts behind with every passing mile. Sweat, pain, injuries all become trophies over years. You don't buy them, you fight over the odds and earn them. This characteristic shines brighter than any precious metal or stone giving me an identity beyond a woman, wife, mother, daughter or any relationship. We all are born runners but just few of us create and carve our exclusive trait as a runner.
My (official runner's) journey started in 2012, with the AHM half marathon. The time when I only knew ONE thing which was that I need to #run an odd 13 miles to get a shiny medal at the finish line. ...
From an everyday, self trained runner to a long distance runner and a gym enthusiast it had its uphill & downhill mirroring the toughest road runs of India, the Hyderabad Marathon. Pain, cramps, myth bursts, 😪, rain showers and the delicious goodies in the box post run are still fresh in my mind even after a decade of running, strengthening, mentoring and sharing what i learnt and am still learning. From 100 mtrs to 13 miles on this tough course of unending roads, 3 big flyovers, I still beam with extreme pride and strong memories of my special city run. ❤️
It's my first ever pacing experience for any event and that also translates into a mixed feeling of anxiety, anticipation and excitement. The flag bearer of a 5:30 hr bus ,leading all levels of runners to the other side of pain, passion, sweat , grind and immense pride. I look forward to taking this responsibility with utmost seriousness, honesty and as a learning experience. I plan to run the first half in and around 02:30 - 02:40 whilst keeping the 'josh' tempo and comfort of the fellow runners. From the start line to the finish line, ' let the music play'. 🎶 Cheers!!
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Saravanan
Hyderabad
Running Group: Hyderabad Runners
Hyderabad pulled me into running and I started my running journey with Club run 2019. Later, I participated in all the events of Hyderabad runners including the stadium run. Now, running is my passion. I am now a seasoned, consistent and disciplined runner clocking more than 2500+ kilometres every year. Running every day with the tagline of #IamActiveToday for 1157 days in a row and counting. Completed two FMs and two ultra (50K) and 88 HMs so far.
This is my fourth consecutive participation in the Hyderabad Marathon. My very first half marathon and the debut full marathon was at Hyderabad Marathon course in 2019 and 2021 respectively. I paced HM 2:30 bus last year (2022) and pacing FM 5:30 bus this year....
It gives me immense pleasure to run with a group and support them to achieve their goals. Earlier, I paced three half marathons (2:45, 2:30 and 2:15 buses). This is my first FM pacing.Having a pacing plan which consists of positive splits by considering elevations, walk breaks and sag point stops. Very familiar with the route and hence the first half will be covered in 2:30 hours (around 7.07 min/K) and the second half will be adjusted accordingly. I would love to share my experience, stories and engage the runners to make the experience enjoyable. Happy running.
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Hari Prasad
Hyderabad (Kompally)
Running Group: Hyderabad Runners (Kompally Runners), Palava Runners
Hari has done Masters in Biotechnology and is currently working as a Project manager in Syngene international limited, Hyderabad. He started running in 2015 and has covered more than 18000 kilometres so far in running and around 15000 kilometres distance in cycling. He has participated and finished 4 Ultra Marathon events, 14 Full marathons and several half marathons.
He has also earned the title of Super Randonneur award from Audax club Parisien organised by Pune Randonneurs in 2015 - 2016.Hari has co-founded Palava Runners (A running group in Mumbai). He has motivated several runners for regular running and cycling which includes members of all age groups. The group has now several Ultra runners, full marathoners, super randonneurs etc. ...
He has also organised several small events such kids run, pink run, last Sunday of the month, 12 hour (night run) challenge, 100 days challenge, 101 days challenge in Mumbai. Hari believes and loves mentoring new runners in achieving their goals.The Hyderabad marathon route is one of the toughest city marathon routes due to several flyovers in between. First 10km is flat around the Hussain Sagar lake, post 10km route is either elevation or rolling hills. The climbs at the end of the race make it more challenging.I will be targeting the first HM distance in 2 hours 45 minutes and 2nd HM in 3 hours 15 minutes. Will be taking walk breaks post every water station.
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Shajan Samuel
Bengaluru
Running Group: NA
My name is Shajan Samuel. I have been working in the corporate industry for the last 26 years, out of which 16 years have been in a leadership role. I started running 9 years back, it happened off the fly, I was obese weighing around 94 years. Running was a respite to escape from the rigmarole of a frenzied agitated life. Later on, I took to running like a fish to water and it became an inward journey. I lost around 25 kgs and transitioned into long distance running.Over time I have run several marathons and ultras. Few of them are The Border 100km, Rohtang epic 80 km Garhwal 74, 12/24/36 hour stadium run, 220 km once and 161 km thrice in a span of 6 months. This year I could complete the Comrades Marathon 87.7km in 11.17 hours. My PB in a full marathon is 3.59 hours. I am also the Ambassador for fit India movement...
I am running the Hyderabad full marathon for the first time and thankful for the Hyderabad running group for entrusting me with my first pacing assignment.Since I am pacing the 6-hour bus, I believe there will be a lot of debutants excited to cross the finish line. We shall start slow and maintain a steady HR. Downhill we shall accelerate and uphill (flyovers) we shall jog and walk, first half of the Marathon we shall conserve energy and will attempt to finish in 3 hours, second half we shall target 2.58.30 hours.We have a lot of time to cover up so don't rush in the beginning, the adrenaline will pump in at the start line, but we shall run well within our limitations and make a strong and emphatic finish.We shall do this together.
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