Conquering the known-unknown: Unplanned 100-Miler at Hennur Bamboo Ultra 2023

When I stood at the starting line of the Hennur Bamboo Ultra on October 27th, 2023, I embarked on a journey that would redefine my limits — a race that wasn’t just about covering miles, but about pushing boundaries in unexpected ways.

This wasn’t my first foray into the realm of 100-mile running. Having conquered the 100 miler at the challenging desert course from Jaisalmer to Longewala in December 2021(Hell Race Border Ultra 100 Miles) , I knew what to expect from a gruelling 100Miler. This race held its own set of surprises and tests mainly because I haven't covered much miles in last 1 year. However, I was still maintaining my 3 runs a week routine but the run distances were mostly short, like 10KM and 10miles.

Unlike the expansive landscapes of my previous 100-mile endeavour, the Hennur Bamboo Ultra presented a unique challenge—a 10Km loop course during day time and an unforgiving 1KM loop at night (due to forest area restrictions). What followed was running this 1KM loop throughout the night - an extraordinary test of mental fortitude. I looped 111 times covering 111KMs which is close to 70% of my race distance — a testament to adaptability and perseverance in the face of challenging circumstances.

I am not unfamiliar with running throughout the night, having run that way on 3 previous occasions, my first 100Miler, Stadium Run and 10hour run self-supported run while preparing for Khardung-la challange)

The decision to transition from initial thought of a 100-kilometer race to challenging myself with 100 miles wasn’t a spur-of-the-moment choice. It was a conscious effort to delve deeper into the reservoirs of my strength, to test the limits of my endurance and mental tenacity.

As a seasoned ultrarunner, I had experienced the rigors of such races, but this one was different. With minimal practice leading up to the event, each step of the way demanded unwavering determination and mental resilience.

This race held profound personal significance—it marked my second 100-mile endeavour, a milestone in my ultrarunning journey. Moreover, it was a symbolic return to the ultra racing circuit after embracing the beautiful chaos and joy of fatherhood—a journey that intertwined the responsibilities of nurturing a new life with pursuing my passion. 

Crossing the finish line after 20 hours and 45 minutes was more than a physical accomplishment; it was a testament to adaptability, mental resilience, and the unyielding human spirit. 

While merely completing the 100-mile journey is an accomplishment in itself, securing the leading position in the 100-mile category marked my victory, crossing the finish line a remarkable four hours ahead of the closest competitor.

 Having a casual conversation with Saikat & Alokik

To Babu sir, your support and belief in my capabilities were instrumental. Without your unwavering encouragement, this unexpected 100-mile journey would have been far more daunting. 

To Deepti akka, thank you for coming all the way and being part of the celebration - the positivity you bring in is something else 😊

Thanks Nitin & Ravi for taking time and meeting me on the day before the event - as a big time Introvert, I generally isolate myself before such events but this is a group that just adds positivity.

A few pics from the event

 

On Sunday around 30 runners from my running group Run Machines of Sutra ran different categories from 5KM till 50KM and we won 7 more podium position. This was an icing on the cake.

Reflecting on this unique and challenging experience, I'm reminded that every 100-mile race, regardless of prior experience, brings forth unforeseen tests and victories. It’s about embracing the unknown, pushing boundaries, discovering untapped reservoirs of strength within and finding resilience in the face of unexpected twists.

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Hennur Bamboo ultra is a special event for me as I won the runner up position in this very event in 100KM category in 2021 which I ran as a preparation for my Border Ultra 100Miler.

 

A few funny quotes on the route markers en-route the run: