Episode 115- Why Madhu Ran a Marathon in Her Mum’s Saree - And Broke a World Record

Send us Fan MailWhat can happen when you start running simply because you need something for yourself, and then keep going for nearly two decades?In this episode, I’m joined by Madhusmita Jena, aka The Small Runner (@thesmallrunner)  whose running journey began as a new mum in Dubai and has since included more than 40 marathons, seven Boston qualifying times, a 3:27 marathon PB, ultramarathons and a remarkable Guinness World Record.  Pasted textMadhu shares the story behind running the Manchester Marathon in her mum’s sari and breaking the world record, why representing her South Asian heritage mattered, and the impact it has had on women around the world.We also talk about fitting serious training around motherhood and working as a SEND teacher, how her approach to running has changed in her 40s, strength training, nutrition and recovery, what went wrong at her first Boston Marathon, and why she still has unfinished business with both Boston and the ultra distances.From a woman who describes herself as the shy child who lacked confidence to a world-record-holding marathon runner, this is a brilliant example of just how much running can change you.And Madhu isn't finished yet — 50 marathons by 50 and a 100-mile race are still on the list.Support the show