Mumbai witnessed an inspiring victory on Sunday as Kartik Karkera, a young orthopaedic surgeon, clinched the Indian elite men's title at the Tata Mumbai Marathon. Karkera achieved this feat in his very first attempt at the challenging 42-kilometer race in his home city.
A Dramatic Finish
The race delivered high drama in its final stages. Karkera appeared comfortably positioned for victory when severe cramps struck him, a common ordeal for marathoners nearing the finish line. Reigning champion Anish Thapa began closing the gap rapidly.
At this critical moment, the roaring crowd support provided Karkera with the extra push he desperately needed. The enthusiastic cheers helped him push through his deteriorating physical condition. He crossed the finish line, held by seven-time Olympic medallist Andre De Grasse, the event's international ambassador, with a time of 2 hours, 19 minutes, and 55 seconds.
Podium Results and Immediate Celebrations
Karkera's winning time placed him 10th in the overall standings. Anish Thapa finished just 13 seconds later, clocking 2:20:08, and graciously congratulated the new champion. Pradeep Chaudhary secured the bronze medal with a time of 2:20:49.
The victory sparked immediate celebrations. A police officer excitedly beckoned Karkera for a selfie moments after he finished. Spectators shouted his name from the stands near the finish line.
The Hometown Advantage
"This was my first marathon here in Mumbai, so I'm extremely happy to not only podium but win," Karkera told reporters afterward. The 28-year-old doctor emphasized his deep connection to the city. "I was born and brought up here. I received tremendous roadside support. In the last two to three kilometers, when things got really tough, I kept thinking, 'This is Mumbai, my city. I cannot quit.'"
He described the overwhelming encouragement. "The support was so strong. I felt like I could hear my name being called at almost every kilometer. I'm truly grateful for that."
Balancing Medicine and Marathon Running
At the post-race press conference, reporters repeatedly asked how he manages to juggle a demanding medical career with competitive running. Karkera explained that his medical knowledge actually provides an advantage.
"My studies have helped me immensely, particularly in understanding how to help my body recover quickly," he said. "I don't feel stressed about it because being a doctor is my profession. I run purely for enjoyment, not out of necessity. I want to set an example, especially for parents, that you can successfully manage both academics and sports simultaneously."
Looking Ahead and Managing Newfound Fame
Karkera will now focus on next month's New Delhi Marathon, where he aims to qualify for the Asian Games later this year. However, his balancing act is becoming more challenging following this significant win.
"It is tough, especially now that I'm gaining some fame," Karkera admitted with a laugh. "I'm receiving more individual clients. Patient flow has increased, and I sometimes have to ignore people." He works at Dr. Vasantrao Pawar Hospital in Nashik.
Before this victory, Karkera had only run two marathons: one in Nashik last January and another in Moscow last September, where he participated as a pacer. For his Mumbai win, he received a prize of Rs 5 lakh.
Motivation Beyond Money
Financial reward is not his primary driver. "For me, money is very secondary," Karkera stated. "I am a working professional, so I don't worry about money. I don't ask anything from my family, though I know their support is always there. Right now, I'd say fame is more important to me."
On Sunday, as his home city cheered him on, Kartik Karkera fully embraced his newfound recognition, proving that passion and profession can indeed run side by side.
