The upcoming 2025 Namosi Challenge, hosted by the Suva Marathon Club, continues to draw enthusiastic participants, including SMC ambassador Amit Ahalawat, a dedicated advocate for the event. Ahalawat, who has been living in Fiji for nine years and currently serves as the regional head of IT at Digicel Pacific, discovered his passion for running during the first Namosi event in 2020, aptly titled “Fiji’s Toughest Run.”
Inspired by fellow runners and the supportive community around the Suva seawall, Ahalawat embraced the challenge of running, finding it essential for both physical and mental well-being. “Running helps relieve both physical and mental stress,” he stated, comparing it to a form of meditation that brings clarity and discipline to his life.
The Namosi Challenge has personal significance for Ahalawat, particularly after he completed his first full marathon on Namosi trails in 2020 despite facing food poisoning the day before. He recalls that experience as “a moment of grit, gratitude, and sheer willpower.”
The race features a rugged and visually captivating course along gravel roads, steep climbs, and winding rivers. Ahalawat emphasizes the importance of preparation, including hill runs and cross-training. Beyond the challenging terrain, he appreciates the warmth of the local communities, which contribute to the event’s charitable goals, such as supporting village footbridges and the WOWS Kids Fiji program.
Noteworthy is Ahalawat’s pride in watching his 16-year-old son complete his first half marathon at last year’s event, reinforcing the family’s involvement in this spirited running culture. With an impressive running streak of 700 days, Ahalawat now sets his sights on reaching 1000 days, with aspirations to participate in an Ironman Triathlon.
He encourages newcomers to join the challenge, regardless of their fitness levels. “Don’t worry about the ‘toughest trail’ tag. The Namosi challenge may test your limits, but it will lift your spirit,” he assures prospective participants.
Scheduled for June 7, the Namosi Challenge offers various race options including a half marathon (21 kilometers), an individual marathon (10 kilometers), and a team marathon, where teams of four each run 10 kilometers to complete a full marathon. This multi-faceted approach not only showcases the breathtaking landscape of Fiji but also fosters a sense of community spirit and participation that sets the Namosi Challenge apart.
A hopeful aspect of this event is its ability to connect people from diverse backgrounds through a shared love for running, while also contributing positively to the local community. The Namosi Challenge exemplifies resilience, support, and the breathtaking beauty of Fiji, making it a truly inspiring occasion for both participants and spectators alike.
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