The run was on 3rd of December. We reached Bhopal on 1st of December for the press conference. The organisers of the race arranged a Heritage Walk which I enjoyed the most. Mr. S. M. Hussain, a very good story teller, took us around most famous monuments and explained us the history behind those monuments.
Bhopal is known as a city of lakes. Bhopal was founded in 11th century by Raja Bhoj . But the interesting era was of famous ‘Begamats’, dynasty of powerful’ Begums’ ( Moslem Queens) started reigning the royal city of Bhopal from early 19th century till 1926 , a period of almost 100 years.
The meteoric rise of the female rulers in the male dominated world can be considered as a fascinating example of woman power. Not only that, being a part of the conservative Islamic royal families, their endeavours were even praiseworthy. They gave the royal city its present look and introduced some innovations.
The Organisor of Run Bhopal Run, also a female, having the characteristics of the Begums of the famous ‘begamats’, is very active, enthusiastic having a mission in hand to promote this Marathön as one of the best marathons in India. She also has a backup of a great team. I am sure she will incorporate the feedback from we runners about the race to make it more runner friendly. I strongly feel that we runners should support such people who are genuinely interested in giving the runners their dream run n encourage them by registering for it.
Places to visit in Bhopal –
Madhya Pradesh Tribal Museum , Taj-ul-Masjid is one of Asia’s largest mosques in India with white domes, minarets and a huge courtyard. Moti Masjid , Jama Masjid , Rani Kamlapati Palace ,Bhimbetka Caves , Sanchi Stupa, Raisen Fort , Udayagiri Caves , Shaukat Mahal , Gohar Mahal , Lakshmi Narayan Temple ,Bhojpur Temple.
It will be a unique experience to combine running with sight seeing.
Race Expo was very neat and well managed. Race was on 3rd of December. It was point to point course. Race started at historic Lal parade ground and ended at Tatya tope stadium.
Weather was around 13 degrees, pleasant and cold. First half of the race is to run around Upper lake and picturesque Bhopal, the second half is more of inclines. There were enough water stops, medical stations. Young volunteers were over enthusiastic to serve the runners. All in all it was a great experience. Most of the runners from Mumbai got their PB.
If the organisers arrange a guide for the outstation runners to visit the monuments and improve on a few points which I have shared with them, then one can really enjoy this run along with the family.
Thank you so much Dr Amita Chand for the great hospitality. I wish you the very best for all your future endeavors. Thank you Ms.Mercy for your Co ordination . Thank you Rahul for the initiative , your help and coordination for all the three Days. It was lovely spending time with Kaushik , Bindu & all the Runners Academy Team members , Guys I enjoyed your company thoroughly . Thank you & hope to see you all soon.
