As a run up to the 4th edition of BITS World 5k Run, we interviewed Karthikeyan, who has been a regular feature of BITS World 5k Run for the last 3 years. He shared his experience from the past editions and a few tips for the first-timers.

Background info: 

Name: Karthikeyan V

Batch: 2000

Location: Chennai

Profile: Has been a sportsperson all through school / college and actively run / cycle / play cricket etc. Has officially run 3 marathons & over 25 half-marathons. Has cycled Bangalore to Chennai (350 km) in 2 days. Regularly plays cricket for his club team.

Q1. Could you briefly tell us about your BITS 5k run experience last year?

I have been running BITS 5k in Chennai for the past 3 years. Last year, 15 of us from different batches from the 70s/80s to the recent graduates came together to run. Some of us ran, some walked but all crossed the finish line . The post run camaraderie was fantastic, with the seniors telling us tales about their days in Pilani. I went back with many new friends!

Q2. How was running for BITS2MARATHON different from any other formally organized running event?

The BITS 5k Run helped me know the BITSians in my city better. This run has space for everyone, from the fast finishers to the walkers. I look forward to the post run discussions with everyone on ‘runner’s high’. The best part about this run is the ease with which all the BITSians come together, break ice and meet over the run.

Q3. Any tips/ message you have for the first-time runners participating in the 4th edition of BITS 5k run this year?

Don’t worry about the finish time. Run, Walk or Crawl…but finish 🙂 and stay regular with running, the rest of the year.