Community

After a few years he moved back to India and started an export oriented public limited seafood company in Vizag. Currently he’s in the retail business with established franchise showrooms for different brands in the beloved City of Destiny. He is a member of Rotary International and has served in different capacities as a President, Assistant Governor, and Chairman of Rotary Blood Bank in the past. He enjoys yoga and is an avid runner. Rai started running in 2013 to keep himself healthy and fit and soon came to love everything about the sport. He has participated in all the major marathons across the country making friends from various cities along the way. We founded the Vizag Runners group in the year 2014 in a bid to create a community of like-minded running enthusiasts seeking to make a difference in society. Over the years the group has continued to create awareness around the benefits of running and undertakes various non-profit activities as well. our dream is to grow the society into a national organisation that brings together runners from various walks of life and provides them a platform to make a real difference in their lives .

This group which ran regularly went on to form the core group and started Vizag Runners as a formal society. Earlier, had taken to running as simple way to keep fit but now running is a passion. My yearly calendar highlight dates are the marathons I want to run. Also no matter where I travel, I always try to take time to run in the morning at every new place. It’s a fun way to explore the surroundings. Circumstances permitting I hope to keep running for as long as possible.

In Visakhapatnam, I took up the role of Vice President of Finance at Fame Realty. Initially, I was a brisk walker, but then I found the company of Mr. Vijay Sekhar from Eastern Naval Command, who introduced me to running, explaining how joggers use a different set of muscles. Since then, I have completed a couple of ultramarathons (50K category), over 7 full marathons, more than 30 half marathons, and countless 10K runs. I found my sweet spot in running and began participating in events like the Vizag Navy Marathon, Vizag Bay Marathon, Tata Mumbai Marathon, Airtel Hyderabad Marathon, Jio Amaravathi Marathon, IDBI Delhi Marathon, Kolkata Steel 25K Run, and Chennai Skechers Marathon. I also participated in 50K trail running events such as the Ultribe Paderu and Mahabaleshwar Endurathon. I was selected for the Chicago Marathon, but the event was canceled for a couple of years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, I am excited to participate in the upcoming Chicago Marathon in October 2024. I love running in groups, training people regularly, interacting with fellow runners, and participating in marathons worldwide.

My first Marathon run was for 21Km in Vizag Navy Marathon. Post that it turned out a habit to be part of annual race- Airtel Hyderabad, Goa and so on. Then took strong leaps of full marathon -Tata Mumbai, Vizag Navy and since then it’s been a journey I cherish. 2017 Hyderabad Triathlon was a eye opener that I am not done yet. As a Marathoner I strongly recommend every individual to be physically active to be mentally attractive. Running is my meditation and each run has been a yoga therapy. Being a Founder Member of Vizag Runners, I will call out all my married friends to start running (not form your wife )but towards the betterment of your Life.

Initially I used to run solo. Then got introduced to Vizag Sole Runners -- now named VIZAG RUNNERS and started learning the dynamics of running - still learning. Running is like meditation on the go- You just need your selfand a pair of shoes to go for a run. But the extended family you get when you are part of a group-- the camaraderie the fun the celebration of a good finish is what keeps the runner in you alive. I am blessed to be part of this family-- Vizag Runners, where the motto is let Running become the path to a healthy lifestyle.

I have been a sports lover ever since my school & college days… participating & representing my school & college in various games & tournaments… Even though I always tried to have a very active lifestyle inspite of my hectic academic & professional schedule, I took up road & long distance running very late in life. But, once I started, there has been no looking back .. Now, my Life & Lifestyle largely revolves around running & racing….. Seriously!!… there is immense joy, peace & power in running… it’s really liberating, meditative & so therapeutic. You have to be there, do it & feel it yourself…. You will never regret. I encourage everyone to take up running & see what you can do with yourself… Be Limitless !!!…

I began running ten years ago and enjoy both trail and road running. In 2023, I proudly finished the Comrades Ultramarathon. I am passionate about promoting health within the community.

These activities are not just about competition; they are about bringing people together, fostering a sense of community, and encouraging everyone to stay fit and healthy. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just starting out, I believe there's a place for everyone in our activities taken up by VRs. Join us, and let's hit the roads of Vizag together!

Each race has been a testament to my self-confidence, discipline, and the wonderful friendships I've formed along the way. I always try to inspire individuals to adopt a healthier, more active way of living, and provide an opportunity to experience the joy and discipline that running brings. As a dedicated runner from Vizag, I am excited to promote our city's fitness and well-being, while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Visakhapatnam.

With his organising skills, he is part of Vizag Runners to support running as a positive influence in the society, especially in the development of youth.

Later did regular group runs on Beach Road and discovered running was my passion. I regularly trained & participated in various events all over the country along with VRs to complete Half/ Full / Ultra Marathons. I always ensured to listen to my body signals and accordingly adjusted my training routine. I'm still learning various aspects of running to improve my performance and wish to sustain my running for a long time. As a runner I'm happy to be associated with Vizag Runners, a group with an intent to improve year after year the running experience of the Runners participating in VIZAG MARATHON.

Started running in the year 2016 and have officially participated and finished over 30 HMs 15 FMs and 10 Ultramarathons. Running has given me self confidence made my life disciplined and a chance to make friends all over the country. I urge everyone to take up running and feel liberated.

We are now with over 37 years of unwavering commitment and expertise in the cement trading. With a robust network and deep industry expertise, we specialize in sourcing and delivering high-quality cement products to meet diverse construction needs. "Fitness has been a central pillar in my life, guiding me towards a healthier and more vibrant existence from my child hood making me participate in the JUNIOR NATIONALS VOLLY BALL team. Over the years, I've embraced various forms of exercise and wellness practices that resonate with me personally. From strength training to yoga and outdoor adventures, Cycling, Marathon events, each activity has not only sculpted my physique but also nourished my mind and spirit. My journey in fitness is a testament to the transformative power of dedication and discipline, inspiring me to continually push boundaries and strive for peak performance in every aspect of life.

With eight full marathons under my belt and a personal best time of 4hrs 36min, I've learned to embrace the challenges and rewards of long-distance running. My journey began in 2016 , when I first started running to shed a few kilos. My first race was a 10 km run walk run in Vizag Bay Marathon. Since then, I've fallen in love with the sport and the sense of accomplishment that comes with crossing the finish line. The biggest challenge for me is training for the marathon rather than running the marathon itself. The most satisfying achievement was Hyderabad marathon last year which i was able to complete inspite of a shoe bite and achilles heel.