Unpacking India’s Marathon Challenge: Genes, Geography, or Grit?
For decades, the marathon has been perceived as a test of physical endurance. However, a deeper examination of Indian athletics reveals a more intricate narrative. This complexity was starkly illustrated in London, where Sabastian Sawe became one of the first athletes to break the elusive two-hour barrier in a World Athletics-sanctioned marathon, finishing in 1:59:30. Just eleven seconds later, Yomif Kejelcha crossed the line at 1:59:41. This achievement was not merely a record; it signified a shift in what was once thought impossible, highlighting a trend emerging from systems adept at cultivating endurance.
Dr. P.S.M. Chandran, a prominent sports medicine specialist and former Director of Sports Medicine at the Sports Authority of India, emphasized that records are meant to be broken. He questioned why certain nations achieve these milestones more swiftly than others, providing a perspective that challenges conventional wisdom. His insights delve into physiological differences and the inherent capacities that may not be as pronounced in Indian athletes.
Despite extensive research, including a 1986 initiative aimed at identifying high-altitude talent in India, the results were inconclusive. Athletes were selected, tested, and relocated to Delhi, but the anticipated transformations did not materialize, leading to a decline in urgency regarding the initiative.
Dr. Chandran noted that while Kenyan long-distance runners excel, the same cannot be said for 100-meter sprinters from the same region, suggesting that performance varies significantly across different athletic disciplines. He pointed out that India lacks the physical capacity and endurance seen in many African and some Latin American athletes.
The discussion surrounding the potential benefits of high-altitude training centers remains unresolved. Dr. Chandran remarked that while the topic has been debated extensively, no definitive conclusions have been reached. Past efforts to train athletes at high altitudes did not yield significant improvements, and there has been little follow-up on recruiting talent from regions like Leh, known for its altitude.
Divya Jain, a mental wellness expert who collaborated with Team India during the Paris Olympics, highlighted the importance of individual abilities and the psycho-social environment in nurturing champion athletes. She asserted that success is a combination of physical and psychological attributes, along with environmental support. While genetics play a role, the surrounding culture and resources are critical for athlete development.
The sporting culture within a community significantly influences participation and success. Jain emphasized that children grow up influenced by role models and the extent to which sports are encouraged in their environment, which ultimately shapes their belief in their capabilities.
Despite the existence of the Himalayas and high-altitude regions, the underlying systems that foster champions are lacking. Dutee Chand, an Olympian sprinter, redirected the focus from genetic predispositions to the realities faced by athletes in India. She noted the scarcity of training centers, particularly in rural areas, and the need for structured training that encompasses recovery, discipline, and nutrition.
Chand pointed out that Indian athletes often lack the endurance required for high-speed long-distance running. She argued that if athletes received proper training in recovery and discipline, their performance could improve significantly, indicating that altitude alone is not the solution.
The disparity in sports participation also reflects socio-economic factors. Many athletes emerge from disadvantaged backgrounds, where sports provide an accessible avenue for success. Chand explained that while affluent individuals may pursue sports for enjoyment, those facing economic hardships often turn to athletics as a means of survival, requiring minimal investment.
Chand further elaborated that an Indian athlete training in Kenya could potentially excel, while a Kenyan athlete training in India may not achieve the same level of success. She stressed the importance of proper footwear, noting that lightweight shoes are crucial for marathon running.
This brings the focus back to India, not as a nation devoid of talent, but as one still in search of the right ecosystem to transform effort into excellence. The marathon, fundamentally, rewards sustained effort over time, and this is where India’s journey continues.
As reported by www.timesnownews.com.
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Published on 2026-05-07 17:41:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk