From Bahraini Roads to Global Marathons: The Inspiring Journey of Himanshu Patel
The Kingdom of Bahrain has a unique ability to foster passions and launch dreams. For Himanshu Patel, an Indian expat who has called Bahrain home for nearly two decades, this proved remarkably true. What began as a casual jog in November 2014, spurred on by newfound friends and local mentors, blossomed into a lifelong dedication to marathon running and ultimately, inspiring others to embrace the sport. Now, as he prepares for a new chapter, Patel reflects on the profound impact Bahrain has had on his personal and athletic journey.
A Bahraini Beginning: Discovering the Runner Within
Himanshu Patel arrived in Bahrain in December 2003, initially focused on building his career. He quickly rose through the ranks at Optica WLL, becoming a Regional Retail Sales Manager and taking on Quality Control responsibilities. However, Bahrain offered more than just professional opportunities; it provided the perfect environment for self-discovery.
“I never ran as a child,” Patel admits, highlighting the unexpected nature of his passion. His introduction to running came through encouragement from colleagues and Bahraini friends, starting with manageable distances. This gentle nudge ignited a love for the sport, propelling him towards increasingly ambitious goals. He soon found himself not just running, but training for and completing challenging Ironman races – a testament to his growing dedication.
Representing Bahrain on the World Stage
Patel’s commitment to running extended beyond personal achievement. He began competing in some of the world’s most prestigious marathons, including iconic races in Mumbai, Chicago, New York, and Berlin. Crucially, he didn’t run as just an Indian expat. He consistently carried both the Indian and Bahraini flags, a symbolic gesture of gratitude for the country that had so warmly embraced him.
“I carry both flags, of India, my home country, and that of Bahrain as a token of gratitude,” he explains. “This is my way of thanking a country that gave me so much.” He views himself as representing “the spirit of Bahrain” with every stride, spreading a positive message about the Kingdom’s welcoming nature and support for athletic pursuits.
Bahrain: An Ideal Running Destination
Patel emphasizes that Bahrain is an exceptionally conducive environment for runners. “It’s safe, and the weather is amazing from October to March, the perfect season for outdoor sports,” he states. This combination of security and climate allows for consistent, enjoyable training.
He fondly describes his favorite local running locations: Al Ghouse Park, Zallaq, and the Arad Corniche. However, it’s the sense of community he’s found that truly stands out, specifically at the Awali Bapco Club’s weekend runs. These gatherings bring together locals and expats, fostering camaraderie over shared runs, conversations, and snacks. This positive atmosphere contributed significantly to his growth as a runner. Becoming a certified long distance running coach in July was a natural progression, fueled by his desire to share his passion and knowledge.
A Coaching Philosophy Rooted in Simplicity
Patel’s coaching approach is refreshingly practical and down-to-earth. He centers his guidance on the idea that anyone can start running, regardless of their current fitness level. His core philosophy revolves around starting where you are, maintaining consistent effort, and, most importantly, enjoying the process.
Interestingly, despite his success in completing numerous marathons, Patel remains humble about the challenges of international race entry. He often likens the selection process to “winning a lottery,” acknowledging the competitive nature of securing a spot. He readily admits he isn’t the fastest runner, yet feels incredibly fortunate to have participated in so many significant events.
Future Goals and A Fond Farewell
Patel’s ambition isn’t waning. He has his sights set on tackling the marathons of Sydney and Cape Town, continuing to push his boundaries and experience new challenges. As he prepares to leave Bahrain, the question of where he’ll run next looms large. “Bahrain is special. The community, the safety, the support – you can’t replace that easily,” he reflects.
However, his connection to Bahrain is far from severed. He has pledged to return annually for the Seef Marathon in January, drawn by the energetic crowd, the strong sense of camaraderie, and the ideal running conditions. He is eager to continue experiencing the positive spirit he has found within the Bahraini running community.
A Message of Consistency for Aspiring Runners
For those considering taking up running, Patel offers straightforward advice. He emphasizes consistency as the most crucial factor, advocating for regular effort over obsessing about speed or distance. He encourages beginners to simply start, regardless of how small the initial steps are, and to build the habit gradually.
Through his own dedication and the support of a welcoming community, Himanshu Patel has transformed a casual jog into a life-enriching passion. His story is a powerful testament to the opportunities Bahrain offers, and a shining example of how embracing a new sport can lead to personal growth, global adventures, and the fulfillment of inspiring others. His journey serves as a motivating force, reminding us all that with commitment and perseverance, we can push beyond our limits and achieve extraordinary things, all while carrying the spirit of a place we call home.
