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Aunty 72: A Marathon Runner from Mumbai

I am Primla Hingorani, popularly known as Aunty 72 (born on 12th August, 1945). I have always been fond of sports, especially running and I only realize it now that it has been a blessing in disguise. I am passionate about eating and it shows on my health which has been great with the grace of God. Rather than sitting at home and watching TV serials or engaging in gossip, I prefer to be outdoors and connect with the world around me.

My journey with Marathons started more than a decade back when I took part in the 10 km Dadar Marathon, where I stood first. This was followed by participating in the very first Standard Chartered Marathon, which I truly enjoyed and haven’t missed its yearly series ever since. In addition, I have participated in several Marathons including DNA Marathon, Lokhandwala Marathon, Celebration Marathon, Vile Parle Marathon whose award certificates and medals are a part of my collection. Unfortunately, due to lack of easy access to mobiles or cameras until few years back, I haven’t been able to capture the pictures of the earlier awards that I have won, however they are still fresh in my memory.

Recently, I had an exciting time at Vile Parle Mahotsav where I won certificate for elocution, dance and games for senior citizens. My regular visits to gym, aerobics classes and dance classes have helped me achieve good health and given me the ability to participate in these events and also win competitions. I would especially like to thank Kumar Bhat who encouraged me to include aerobics in my fitness schedule and who also motivates other senior citizens to exercise regularly.

When I first ran Pinkathon 3 years back, it was just one of the marathons; until I met Milind Soman and understood the objective behind Pinkathon – to create awareness for breast cancer. A very humble Milind Soman and Ajit Pathak and all Pinkies including Sharmila Munj and Sonia Kulkarni impressed me a lot and I was inspired to participate regularly in practice runs. Ajit would give us challenges which were exciting to accomplish, specially the 100 day walking challenge. I was dedicated and remained positive to complete this challenge, I managed to complete 500 kilometer in 100 days, thereby setting an example for many.

Along with Pinkathon another cause that I am passionate about is the welfare of underprivileged children. For the last 20 years, I am associated with Asha Kiran Charitable Trust which is a holistic non-profit Organization whose mission is to benefit the underprivileged class of the disparate Indian society. I have been involved in teaching and organising extracurricular activities for the underprivileged children. In the recent Juhu Hamara Marathon I had sponsored 10 underprivileged kids from Asha Kiran Charitable Trusts. In this marathon I also participated in their dance programme for seniors in which I won second prize for performing on Helen’s song “Yeh Mera Dil Pyaar ka Diwana”.

I feel good when people admire me for my fitness. My achievements have been published on different platforms and the responses that I have received so far have given me all the more enthusiasm to continue doing my best and it makes me feel that my dedication towards good health has paid off well.

My only message to everyone is that out of 24 hours a day, give 1-2 hours to your fitness, love yourself, keep the problems aside and take care of yourself, as there is nothing more important than a healthy mind and body.

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