Twitter
Advertisement

This techie has eyes in the back of his head

Mira Road man breaks national record in retro-running half-marathon

Latest News
article-main
Deepuk Kanal, a resident of the Ritu Glory apartment in Mira Road.
FacebookTwitterWhatsappLinkedin

This Sunday morning, it was an amusing sight for thousands of pedestrians and motorists here, when they spotted a young man running backwards. Participating in Vasai-Virar Mayor's half-marathon, the 33-year-old techie soon left other participants dumbfounded when he touched the finish line, breaking the national record in the event.

Deepuk Kanal, a resident of Ritu Glory apartment in Mira Bhayander of Mira Road East here, is a graduate in Bachelor of Computer Applications and works for a private firm.

Kanal's feat of completing his first half-marathon (21 kms)—running backwards with Indian Flag in hand—was recorded in 03:28:04 hours. The previous record in retro running was set by Major Nitin Joshi of Indian Army in 04:03:34 hours at Hyderabad Airtel marathon in August 2015.

"I wanted to spread awareness on the need to keep the city green and clean. Running backwards would help grab more attention for the cause and will take the message to more people," said Kanal, who was felicitated during the awards ceremony at Vasai-Virar Mayor's marathon.

On how he managed to pull it off, Kanal said: I used to practice on the sands near the sea, which helped in a big way.

A native from Vellore in Tamil Nadu, Kanal lives with his parents. "I carried the Tricolour as a mark of respect to our soldiers, whose sacrifice alone makes it possible for us to sleep in peace," Kanal said.

When asked if his parents knew about his unusual reverse running skills, Kanal said: "They were initially confused and shocked, but supported me. Now I know that they would be proud of me," said Kanal.

In fact, running backwards helps one burn more calories. It also helps maintain mental balance and keep the coordination of the body intact, Kanal said.

Find your daily dose of news & explainers in your WhatsApp. Stay updated, Stay informed-  Follow DNA on WhatsApp.
Advertisement

Live tv

Advertisement
Advertisement