On 10th April 2022, Ruchir Patel travelled to Australia's Capital Territory to run his first-ever endurance event and marathon. He had been training with Coach Kel and My Run Team since December 2021 and like most recreational runners, had to balance his training with work and family commitments.

Throughout his training, Ruchir had some niggling injuries which after seeking advice from Coach Kel were sorted by Mike Englesman at iMove Physiotherapy in Rozelle, NSW. However, he continued to train throughout his treatment.

In the final week leading into the race, Ruchir was in excellent form and ready to race thanks to My Run Team.

Race day came with a 17 degree and overcast morning as the runners warmed up out the front of Old Parliament House. The nervous energy was expelled by the runners as they awaited the start gun. The marathoners set off at 6:15 AM and headed around Old Parliament House before climbing the hill and running around Parliament House. Ruchir started out with a brisk pace of 5:23/km for the first 3km of the race, but it wasn't long before he found his groove and kicked up the pace a little to 5:15/km at the 10km mark. He continued to hover around the 5:19/km pace until 30km into the race. His pace slowed slightly over the remaining kilometres of the race but never got any slower than 5:35/km.

Ruchir crossed the finish line to thunderous cheering from the waiting crowds in an official time of 3:55:56 and a Sub four marathon debut was achieved.

Now Ruchir has his eyes on another marathon at Blackmores Running Festival in September 2022 and the six-foot track in March 2023. I am sure with continued training with My Run Team he will achieve great things!