Harish Kajla, a Deputy Commandant in the BSF, will be the first BSF officer and NSG commando to participate in the Comrades Marathon on June 8. He attributes his marathon success to BSF support and standards, while his NSG experience has bolstered his resilience and mental strength. Every early jog and workout reflects the training from his unit and the motivation from fellow soldiers' sacrifices and senior members' encouragement.
While training for the Comrades Ultramarathon, Kajla views himself not just as a solo competitor but also as a symbol of the BSF and NSG. He provided reflections on his experience in the security forces, emphasizing values of discipline, resilience, and striving for excellence.
Kajla emphasized how his involvement in the NSG influenced his path as a marathon runner, "As I stand on the threshold of participating in the iconic Comrades Ultramarathon, I am filled with immense pride and gratitude. This journey is not just a personal milestone but a testament to the unwavering spirit and support of the two elite forces I have had the honor to serve with -the Border Security Force (BSF) and the National Security Guard (NSG)."
The principles of the BSF, summed up in “Duty Unto Death,” have instilled in him resilience and altruistic dedication. The intense training, teamwork, and challenges faced on the frontlines have developed in him the essential mental and physical attributes needed for ultramarathon success.
In August of last year, Harish Kajla achieved worldwide fame as the inaugural officer from the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) to take part in the Ironman Challenge, representing entities like the BSF, CRPF, CISF, SSB, and ITBP. Originating from Jhajjar district in Haryana, Kajla embarked on his marathon journey upon enlisting in the BSF and finished the Half Ironman (70.3 km) in Goa in 2022. His significant accomplishments feature competing in the Hell Race in Jaisalmer in both 2022 and 2023.
More About Comrades Marathon
The Comrades Marathon is an annual ultramarathon of approximately 88 kilometres in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, established in 1921. It's the world’s oldest ultramarathon, alternating yearly between the "up" run from Durban and the "down" run from Pietermaritzburg, featuring significant hills called the "Big Five." The highest elevation reaches around 2,850 feet, with 40 refreshment stations offering water, energy drinks, and snacks.
Since the 1980s, participation has surged, resulting in over 10,000 finishers in most years and longer average finish times. The "down" run covers about 90 kilometres, ending at sea level in Durban, starting with initial climbs like Polly Shortts and descending into Drummond. Pacing is crucial due to late climbs and cumulative fatigue, impacting overall performance at the finish outside Moses Mabhida Stadium.
