Service of police officials is certainly hectic and stressful. Even amid his tight working hours, one police official has been able to find time for his new passion — running.
Mahantesh Dhyamannavar, who is serving as Circle Inspector of Police at Sindgi Police Station in Vijayapura district, has a passion for marathons. He has already participated in at least 20 half and full marathons across the country.
The 38-year-old police official was inspired by one of his colleagues in Dharwad district who was regularly participating in marathons. “It all started about two years ago when I met him during our police training related to anti-corruption bureau in Mysuru. During our five-day training, he told me about his passion for marathons which gave me encouragement and inspiration,” he said.
Mr. Dhyamannavar, who did not look back, began practising and decided to participate in one of the marathons. His first challenge came in September 2016 when he took part in a half marathon in Kodagu.
Clocking two hours and 10 minutes, though he did not secure any medal, he said, participation itself boosted his morale to be part of more such events.
A couple of months later, he participated in a half marathon in Goa where he placed second clocking one hour and 15 minutes. “It was my first medal which was no less than an emphatic victory and one of the many cherishing moments of my life,” Mr. Dhyamannavar said.
Since then, he has participated in over a dozen half and full marathons in South and North India.
“My next aim is to participate in ultra marathons in India and abroad. While half marathon is a little over 21 kilometres long, a full marathon is double that distance. Any marathon beyond the length of a full marathon is called ultra marathon in which I am planning to participate,” he said.
Admitting that it is not possible to participate in such events without the support of higher officials, he said that his seniors have been encouraging him by giving the required leave.
Mr. Dhyamannavar said that he has already inspired at least half of a dozen of his colleagues and friends to participate in half marathons.
Having lost about 12 kilograms in the two years and becoming slimmer, he said, he feels fit after regular practice and participating in marathons.
