Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, March 8: Girish Shetty and Reshma Shetty, a dedicated running couple, have accomplished an extraordinary feat by completing a 952-km run from Mumbai to Mangaluru in just 23 days. Their mission was to raise awareness for childhood cancer and support the Tapasya Palliative Care Centre.
In an impressive display of endurance, the couple set a world record by running 23 full marathons —each 42 km —on 23 consecutive days. Their remarkable achievement has garnered widespread attention within the running community and beyond.
Originally from Yellinje Kolettu Kinnigoli, Girish and Reshma moved to Mumbai for their careers. Girish is a businessman in the hospitality sector, while Reshma serves as a general manager at Reliance Jio. Both have been coached by renowned trainers Haridasan Nair and Kumar Ajwani for the past seven years.
Since 2018, Girish and Reshma have completed over 30 full marathons, more than 52 half marathons, and over 75 10-km runs. They have also participated in 15 ultra-marathons (50-km or more), represented India in South Africa in 2022, and completed the 90-km Ultimate Human Race Comrades Marathon. Reshma Shetty also took part in the 100-mile Border Run (161 km) in Jaisalmer, running non-stop for 27 hours.
The couple received a warm welcome at the Town Hall during the SHOURYA celebration on the eve of International Women’s Day, where they were felicitated for their outstanding achievement.
The event was organised by the Tapasya Foundation in collaboration with Lions International District 317D, IDFC First Bank, and BANMS Mangalore Taluk Samithi Mahila Ghataka.
Training and strategy behind the feat
Completing 952 km in such a short time requires careful planning and efficient recovery strategies. Coach Haridasan Nair explained, "We had to strategise the recovery process carefully, with exercises, oils, ice, and quick recovery techniques to ensure they could run again the following day. Remarkably, they completed the entire 952 km without any injuries."
About the coach – Haridasan Nair
Haridasan Nair, a former army officer, has been coaching the Shettys for the past seven years. A three-time finisher of the prestigious Comrades Marathon (2018, 2019, 2022), he has completed over 500 marathons, 80+ ultra-marathons, and many other endurance events.
Kumar Ajwani – A renowned running figure
Kumar Ajwani is another prominent name in the running community. He has completed several notable events, including the Green Horizon Tree Plantation Drive, the BRO Manali-Leh Run, and the Indian Golden Quadrilateral Run, all of which earned recognition in the World Book of Records. He has also participated in various marathons across India to promote awareness and fitness.
Through their exceptional accomplishments, Girish and Reshma Shetty have not only showcased their athletic prowess but also their dedication to important social causes. Their inspiring journey continues to motivate many.