TCS World 10K Bengaluru: Uniting Runners in the Green City

TCS World 10K Bengaluru has been proudly hosted in Bengaluru since 2008. This prestigious event has attracted some of the fastest international and Indian athletes competing for the coveted podium finish. Additionally, thousands of runners from Bengaluru, across the country, and around the world have joined in, soaking up the vibrant energy and camaraderie of Bengaluru. Over the years, this World Athletics Gold Label Road Race has been graced by the presence of sporting legends like Sanya Richards Ross, Carl Lewis, Mike Powell, and Arantxa Sanchez, who have endorsed the event as ambassadors and actively engaged with both the races and the local community.

Reason To Plan TCS World 10K

My goal was to undertake the demanding challenge of completing the PROCAM SLAM, which involves participating in four distinct runs organised by PROCAM. These includes:

• Open 10K in under 1 hr 30 mins @ TCS World 10K Bengaluru
• Half Marathon in under 3 hr 30 mins @ Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon
• 25K Run in under 4 hrs @ Tata Steel Kolkata 25K
• Marathon in under 6 hrs & 30 mins @ Tata Mumbai Marathon

During discussions with a few friends regarding our running aspirations, we collectively agreed to include the TCS World 10K in our plans, recognising its importance as one of the key events within the PROCAM SLAM series.

Planning for TCS World 10K Bengaluru

I began my training a bit later than planned due to some travel commitments. Despite this, I managed to squeeze in a couple of runs, covering a total distance of only 60 kilometers throughout April, right up until shortly before the event. While I felt somewhat underprepared, I remained confident that I could comfortably complete the 10K run in under 60 minutes. However, my ultimate goal was to achieve a personal best (PB) time of 58 minutes.

Pre Race Day to TCS World 10K Bengaluru

On Saturday, April 29th, a group of friends and I embarked on our journey to participate in the run. Despite traveling individually, we converged at a hotel located approximately 3 kilometers away from the starting point. Arriving there in the afternoon, we took the opportunity to unwind and enjoy each other’s company, engaging in lively conversations and sharing laughter. As evening approached, we focused on fueling our bodies with carbohydrates during dinner, essential for the physical exertion ahead.

Returning to our rooms, we meticulously organised our running gear, ensuring we were fully prepared for the upcoming race. Given the early start time of 5:30 am, we devised a plan to rise at 3:00 am, allowing ample time to complete our pre-race routines and make our way to the start line. With the intention of arriving at the venue by 5:00 am, we aimed to maximise our readiness and ensure a smooth start to the event.

Race Day – TCS World 10K Bengaluru

At the appointed time, we rose, prepared ourselves, and made our way to the starting point. We embarked on a 3 KMS walk and encountered numerous fellow runners along the route, making it straightforward to follow their lead and arrive at the starting point.

Before the break of dawn in Bengaluru, a bustling crowd of runners, including myself and my friends, gathered at the starting line for the highly anticipated TCS World 10K race. Despite the early hour, the atmosphere crackled with energy, a blend of excitement, anticipation, and determination.

After weeks of training, I felt a rush of adrenaline as the countdown began. The air resonated with the cheers of spectators and pulsating music, heightening the anticipation of the impending challenge.

With the race officially underway, I found myself amidst a throng of fellow participants, each with their own aspirations for the day. The initial kilometers passed swiftly as I settled into a comfortable rhythm, buoyed by the encouragement of spectators lining the dimly lit streets, their voices echoing in the predawn stillness.

As the course wound its way through the quiet city streets, I marveled at the tranquil beauty of Bengaluru in the early morning hours. The collective determination of the crowd propelled me forward, urging me to overcome any fleeting moments of fatigue or uncertainty.

With each kilometer marker passed, my excitement surged, fuelled by the realisation that the finish line was drawing nearer. As I approached the final stretch, I summoned every ounce of strength and gave my best at the up hill.

Crossing the finish line was indeed a significant moment, symbolising weak training. However, as I caught my breath and took a moment to contemplate the journey, a sense of disappointment washed over me. Despite my best efforts, I hadn’t managed to complete the race within the planned time. Nevertheless, amidst these feelings, I still couldn’t deny the immense pride and gratitude I felt for having undertaken the challenge.

The TCS World 10K race in Bengaluru was not merely a physical challenge; it was a celebration of resilience, camaraderie, and the relentless spirit of human endeavour. As I joined my fellow runners in commemorating our achievements, I knew that this early morning triumph would be etched in my memory for years to come.

Summary