14 Empowering Women Pacers Leading the World 10K Bengaluru

Bengaluru, April 4 (NationPress) The World Athletics Gold Label race, World 10K Bengaluru, is gearing up for its 17th edition on April 27. As has been tradition, the organizers have enlisted 14 remarkable women pacers to guide participants in the Open 10K category. A notable addition is Shalu Dudeja, a 42-year-old veteran who has paced over 50 events and will be heading the 58-minute bus.

Shalu's journey has not been without challenges; she endured the loss of her mother shortly after her wedding and her father a few years later. However, she discovered a new purpose in distance running—a fulfilling outlet that helped her navigate through personal grief.

She began running not only as a way to maintain fitness but also to address post-delivery health issues, including chronic headaches and body aches. This pursuit transformed into a passion that reshaped her life, allowing her to find both comfort and strength through running.

"Running became my escape, my means of finding tranquility amid the turmoil. My husband, Rohit Raj Dudeja, played a pivotal role in my transformation; he recognized my potential when I couldn't see it myself. Each step I take serves as a tribute to my parents and a testament to my husband's unwavering support. I want to demonstrate that regardless of life's challenges, you can overcome them," Shalu expressed.

Her change is evident not only physically—having lost nearly 30 kilograms—but also emotionally. Shalu’s narrative resonates profoundly within her community in Rohini, Delhi, where she motivates a group of ‘mother runners’ to chase their aspirations. Her debut at the World 10K, pacing the 58-minute group, marks a long-held dream, as she strives to share her contagious positivity and encourage fellow runners to exceed their own limitations.

"I am brimming with gratitude and anticipation. I aim to create an unforgettable experience for everyone running alongside me, proving that they are capable of achieving remarkable feats," she added.

On April 27, Shalu will be accompanied by 13 other committed women pacers, including Divya Madaiah, who will lead the 75-minute bus. Divya's journey began with a virtual World 10K Bengaluru in 2020, and she brings valuable experience from nearly 40 events and previous pacing stints on the streets of Bengaluru.

"World 10K Bengaluru is the highlight of my year. The attention given to runners and pacers is exceptional. Whenever I have the chance to pace for Procam, I seize it wholeheartedly. I run for the sheer joy of it, supporting women and emphasizing that the event transcends mere competition. Leading others to the finish line brings immense joy, and I eagerly anticipate another rewarding race this year," Divya shared.