Vidya Krishna
As if running half-marathons was not challenging enough, she has recently ventured into triathlons. She has pursued her every single goal with passion, method, and focus. It is she, who opened the running realm to few triflers, including me.
Meet this ever-candid Bessie Flyer, Vidya Krishna, who has been running with us with ease and pace, since August last year.
A fervent swimmer, she developed an interest for long-distance running during her research days in IIT Bombay. Inspired by the trendsetters in the running community there, her pursuit blossomed in the campus atmosphere filled with lush green trees mushrooming the sprawling space.
Working her way through short and long runs, she signed up for the first half-marathon in 2004, incidentally the very first edition of SCMM. With her debut finish within targeted timing goal, running became a regular activity that helped her cope and de-stress an over-worked brain.
When Dr Vidya relocated to Chennai, she had to settle with treadmill runs in the gym. “I didn’t know about any running groups in Chennai. Neither did I think running in Chennai roads was even an option”, says VK, explaining her temporary cessation from out-door running.
Furthermore, with pregnancy and associated health issues, her leisure pursuit seemed somewhat like a sunset on the horizon. A spinal issue was weighing her down from performing even simple actions like bending.
As they say, it’s always tough situations that bring out tougher people. Pinning down the root cause of the issue, she went through a dedicated and rigorous physiotherapy routine. Slowly, yet progressively, the mother of two kids, managed to clear every hurdle along the way and got right back on track, literally!
And then, Chennai runners, Bessie Flyers, and run-filled days just unfolded. While campus runs were relaxing, comeback runs with the group added structure to her running regime.
It was a natural choice for an experienced swimmer, runner and cyclist to take up triathlon. Having done a teaser version during her college days, she signed up for the CTC triathlon in the sprint category early this year, and olympic category subsequently.
The finisher of 5 half-marathons, and 2 triathlons is now looking forward to enjoying her runs, and staying injury-free.
Today, having overcome temporary physical setbacks, this contended mother watches over her children with pride, as they sport her medals in the playground – a tranquility that she has rightfully earned.
Join us for a run tomorrow, and speak to this self-assured and motivating runner, who has worked through her spinal limitations, literally bending it like Beckham!!
Bessie Flyers run schedule:
Option 1: HIIT @ Bessie beach
Option 2: HIIT @ Anna University. Kindly look for coach Manivannan Vangalur near the car park.
Option 3: Regular run from Bessie beach meeting point to Aavin loop or Flyover.