Running a marathon on the highest frozen lake in the world

Running a marathon on the highest frozen lake in the world

Here are the key points highlighting the main aspects of the article:

1. Marathon Event: Dr. Umesh Bhammar participated in a challenging marathon at Pangong Lake, the world’s highest saltwater lake, located at an altitude of 14,272 feet.

2. Athlete Participation: The event attracted around 120 athletes from across the globe, showcasing a diverse range of participants.

3. Record Status: The frozen Lake Marathon held in February 2024 is officially recognized in the Guinness Book of World Records.

4. Distance Change: Originally signed up for a full marathon (42 km), the run was shortened to 21 km due to severe weather conditions.

5. Personal Experience: Bhammar completed the shortened marathon in over three hours, illustrating the physical and mental demands of the race.

6. Training Regimen: His preparation involved rigorous training, including strength, plyometric, resistance, and functional exercises, as well as acclimatization to cold temperatures.

7. Cold Weather Challenges: During the marathon, conditions reached as low as -30 degrees Celsius, causing issues like numbness in extremities due to extreme cold.

8. Difficulty Rating: Bhammar rates the Pangong Lake Marathon as a 10 out of 10 in difficulty, noting that altitude and wind conditions made it particularly challenging.

9. Running Inspiration: His journey into marathon running began after he was inspired by observing joyful runners during local events, leading him to start with shorter distances.

10. Coaching Influence: Bhammar credits his running coach for improving his performance and understanding of proper breathing techniques, which helped him avoid injuries and enhance his running experience.

The Challenge of a Lifetime: Dr. Umesh Bhammar and the Pangong Lake Marathon

This February 2024, Dr. Umesh Bhammar, a dedicated marathon runner from Hyderabad, embarked on an extraordinary journey by participating in the world’s highest marathon at Pangong Lake in Ladakh. Situated at an impressive altitude of 14,272 feet, this stunning saltwater lake served as the backdrop for an event that drew around 120 athletes from across the globe, organized by the Adventure Sports Foundation of Ladakh in collaboration with the Indian Army.

A Record-Breaking Event

The Frozen Lake Marathon 2024 has officially secured its place in the Guinness Book of World Records, an accolade that adds to its prestige. Originally, Dr. Bhammar registered for the full marathon, a grueling distance of 42 kilometers. However, due to severe winds and fluctuating weather conditions, the organizers wisely decided to shorten the race to a half marathon of 21 kilometers. Undeterred, Dr. Bhammar completed this modified distance in just over three hours and then returned to his clinic in Hyderabad, reflecting on the experience with a sense of pride.

Training for the Extreme

Preparing for such an extreme event requires rigorous training and adaptation to harsh conditions. Dr. Bhammar described how he honed his skills in Hyderabad, tackling various hills and spending numerous hours in an artificial snow-themed park to acclimatize to the cold temperatures he would face at the lake. To combat the frigid environment during the race, he layered his clothing effectively and wore specially designed shoes to prevent slipping on the icy surface.

His training regimen consisted of power, plyometric, resistance, and functional exercises, each meticulously tailored to enhance his endurance and strength.

The Challenge of Altitude

When asked to rate the difficulty of the Pangong Lake Marathon, Dr. Bhammar placed it at a full ten on a scale of one to ten. The combination of high altitude, biting cold, and strong winds posed significant challenges, making it one of the toughest marathons in India. He vividly recounted the harsh conditions, noting that at times the wind was so fierce it stung his face, and he experienced numbness in his toes and fingers from the extreme cold, with temperatures plummeting between -27°C and -30°C.

Journey to Running

Dr. Bhammar’s journey into the world of marathon running began in 2015 when he was inspired by the vibrant community of runners on Necklace Road. Observing their joyful expressions as they crossed the finish line lit a spark within him. He initially participated in a five-kilometer run to gauge his interest, quickly realizing he cherished the exhilarating feeling of running.

His breakthrough moment came when he met his coach, Jacqueline Babita Xavier (JBX), who played a pivotal role in guiding him through his training. Under her mentorship, he discovered the vital importance of structured training, proper breathing techniques, and ways to minimize injuries.

Setting New Goals

With a solid foundation in running and the determination to push his limits, Dr. Bhammar set his sights on participating in marathons beyond the borders of India. Although he had heard about world-renowned frozen lake marathons in places like Switzerland and Antarctica, he prioritized participating in this challenging event in his homeland first.

As he completed the race at Pangong Lake, Dr. Bhammar not only celebrated his personal accomplishment but also contributed to a significant event in the world of sports. The marathon is a testament to endurance, resilience, and the human spirit’s capacity to overcome daunting challenges.

Dr. Bhammar’s experience thus highlights not just the physical demands of such an event but also the importance of community, mentorship, and individual growth in the journey of a runner. As he prepares for future races, he continues to inspire many with his dedication to running and his adventurous spirit.