Durban runner shines at Mumbai Marathon: Roshun Sunker improves time in 'special' Indian race

DURBAN'S Roshun Sunker completed his second Tata Mumbai Marathon in 5 hours and 50 minutes, improving on his previous time and revelling in the unique atmosphere of what he calls his "happy place".

The veteran runner was among 14 000 participants in one of Asia's premier running events

The 57-year-old flooring contractor from Effingham, Durban, finished the grueling 42.195km race with a time of 5 hours, 50 minutes, and 37 seconds, marking his second appearance at this international event.

Sunker, a member of the Durban Athletic Club, said this was his second Tata Mumbai Marathon - the first being in 2024. 

"I completed that race in six hours and 11 minutes," said Sunker, who travelled to Mumbai with nine South African runners. 

The energy of the event was palpable, especially for Sunker, who described his experience in India as “absolutely special.”

"India, for me, burns your 'sole'. I am comfortable and happy to be here, which is my happy place. Competing here is a highlight. The support from those standing along the side of the road calling out your name, while you run is the best. They yell 'Go South Africa'. You are given a sense of acknowledgement, which is special," said Sunker. 

"I cannot wait to return next year to run the race again." 

He said since his first race, the growth and development in Mumbai had taken shape quickly. 

"The buildings that I have seen being constructed are amazing and at such a rapid pace. I will always come back, God willing."    

Since running the Mumbai Marathon, Sunker, who has been running for 35 years, said he had made new friends who have become family. 

"We communicate often and these runners also visit South Africa for the Comrades Marathon." 

Among the races, Sunker has completed five Comrades Marathons and four Two Oceans Ultra Marathons.    

He will holiday in India and plans on returning home next week. 

"My next race will be another marathon in KZN, which is a qualifier for the Two Oceans Marathon in Cape Town." 

Ethiopians Tadu Abate Deme and Yeshi Kalayu Chekole achieved notable wins at the marathon. 

Abate claimed his fourth international full marathon title after clocking 2:09:55 to win the men's race, while Chekole finished with a time of 2:25:13 to bag the women's elite crown. They won USD 50 000. 

More than 14 000 runners competed in the 21st edition of the Mumbai Marathon (42.195km) - a World Athletics Gold Label Race. 

Over the last two decades, the Mumbai Marathon has grown into one of Asia’s premier distance-running events, playing a key role in popularising running as a mass-participation sport in India. 

The event has consistently provided a platform for Indian and international athletes, while also promoting fitness, community engagement and philanthropy.

According to IANS, 16 369 competed in the half marathon; 8 729 in the Open 10K; 2 219 in the senior citizens’ run; 1 140 participants in the Champions with Disability category; and 27 453 runners in the Dream Run, across both on-ground and virtual formats. 

THE POST