Nearly bedridden in 2013, fourth in 2017 100km ultramarathon, Jaiswal now finishes triathlon

Nagpur: Rajendra Jaiswal became the oldest participant to complete the Half Iron Distance triathlon in the challenging terrain of Kolhapur on Sunday.The 61-year-old Jaiswal, participating in the above 45 years category, braved adverse weather conditions and under construction roads to earn the finishers medal in the Swim-Cycle-Run triathlon race in 8 hours and 23:31 minutes.In a remarkable feat of physical prowess, Jaiswal completed a gruelling 1.9 km swimming segment in 52.13 minutes, followed by the demanding 90km cycling course in 4 hours, 15:12 minutes before conquering a daunting 21-km run in 2.57:39 hours. Jaiswal finished 63rd overall on his way to finish 16th in his age group while becoming the oldest participant in the triathlon.Since the above 60 years category was not held, the fitness freak from Nagpur took part in the above 45 event.Looking at Jaiswal now, one would never guess that in 2013 he was not in a condition to walk, and was almost bedridden. Jaiswal was suffering from severe pain in the knees and was advised joint replacement by doctors. This was something he wanted to avoid. In a chat with TOI in 2017, after finishing fourth at one of the oldest ultramarathons — the Bangalore Ultra — by completing the 100km run in 15.23:26 hours, Jaiswal had explained how he faced the lows of life to make a comeback.Jaiswal said, “After waiting for three months in severe pain, I got the appointment of Dr Anant Joshi in Mumbai. When I met Joshi, his initial words ‘shortest way is to operate’ angered me. I even left his clinic. On my way back, a thought of the longest way crossed my mind. I went back, persuaded Joshi to tell me the longer option.”“Joshi's inspiring words, with the caution of having patience, came handy as he suggested a few exercises, which were to be done religiously, and within a year I was able to walk, and the rest is history.”Jaiswal’s accolades extend far beyond his performance in Kolhapur. He holds two world records, showcasing his unwavering commitment to endurance sports. One remarkable achievement was a non-stop 12.5-hour-run, covering 80.5km. During the challenging days of the pandemic, he embarked on another extraordinary journey, running non-stop for an astounding 13hours, covering 85km, all within the confines of his drawing room.Notably, Jaiswal remains the sole ultra runner from city who has successfully completed both 100km and 161km ultramarathons amidst challenging conditions of Hennur Bamboo Forest in Bangalore.Jaiswal credited his success to an exceptional team of mentors and coaches including Dr Yogesh Satav, physiotherapist Dr Neena Sahu, and others, including family members.
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