New Delhi, August 26, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
At 58, Rohtak-based runner Bimla Banwala is preparing to add another milestone to an extraordinary endurance journey when she lines up for the Delhi Half Marathon, having completed more than 100 races since taking up running during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020.
What began as an effort to stay active has evolved into a lasting passion. Bimla has completed more than 50 half marathons, five full marathons, several 10K races and other long-distance events. She now takes part in around 10 races every year, saying the joy and positive energy she derives from running matter more than the numbers.
“I started running in 2020, and since then it has become a very important part of my life. I enjoy running in marathon races, and after running, I feel good and have positive energy; my mind remains fresh,” Bimla said.
Her journey has taken her to some of India’s biggest road-running events. A regular participant in Procam International’s marquee races, she has completed the Procam Slam and competed in the Delhi Half Marathon, Tata Mumbai Marathon, Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata and TCS World 10K Bengaluru.
Running has also become a shared pursuit for Bimla and her husband, Chandrapal Banwala. The couple regularly travels together to participate in races across the country and has earned the affectionate tag of a “power couple” within their running community.
Chandrapal, a former Army personnel who joined the forces in 1987, had been introduced to sports such as wrestling during his service. Running became a major pursuit for him after the pandemic, and he has since completed numerous marathons and ultra-marathons, along with several podium finishes.
“I have become so passionate about running that I don’t see anything else. Running has become such an integral part of my life, and I truly believe there is nothing better for one’s health,” he said.
Together, the Banwalas have travelled to Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Bengaluru for races, transforming running from an individual fitness activity into a shared family experience.
For Bimla, the significance of the journey goes beyond race finishes. Five years after she first began running, the sport has become a source of fitness, positivity and mental freshness.
Now, with the Delhi Half Marathon bringing runners back to the capital’s streets, Bimla is set to return to the start line with more than a century of races behind her. At 58, she continues to approach each event as another opportunity to stay active, enjoy the sport and see where her next run takes her.
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