11 February,2026 10:52 AM IST | Mumbai | Rumani Gabhare
At the Burj Khalifa during his run. Pics courtesy/Rajmani Singh
Sometimes, the biggest races begin with a mistake. Rajmani Singh, an avid runner lost his bib just a day before the Tata Mumbai Marathon 2026, which abruptly ended his months of preparation, and a long-awaited 42K dream.
What followed, however, was not despair but a positive revival. "Instead of sulking, I leaned into gratitude. A short break, and a few reassuring words from my coach Kaushik Panchal helped me reframe the disappointment. I kept telling myself, if one door closes, Dubai opens," emphasised Singh.
Singh posses with medal post marathon
That shift led him to the Burj2Burj Half Marathon which took place on February 8, and his first international race. "Dubai's arid heat replaced Mumbai's familiar humidity, demanding restraint rather than aggression. This wasn't about running, it was about listening to my body and respecting the conditions," reiterated Singh. He also mentioned how the run was more of a test of patience than a simple marathon.
Tips that helped him ace the harsh desert conditions
1 Stay hydrated: Dubai temperatures will definitely hit differently as it is dry, and nothing like Mumbai heat. Early-morning temperatures are above 25°C, with dry air accelerating dehydration and heart-rate spikes. Focus on water and electrolytes and keep a close watch on your heart rate.
2 Train yourself in heat: Preparation will make the difference. Under my coach, heat-acclimation runs in Mumbai were mandatory. "Those short 5-8K runs in the months of May and June in Mumbai taught my body to adapt," Singh explains. The more you train, the more your body adjusts to the heat.
3 Focus on your pace: Pacing was equally crucial. His advice to first-timers is to not chase records as ego has no role to play in this heat. Acclimatise early, focus, and listen to any warning signs by your body.
4 Keep your accessories light: Skip heavy accessories as they will only hinder your speed resulting in deteriorating pace. Wear light and breathable clothes, carry sunglasses, a cap and body tape for your skin.
