Chennai: Marathon running former Mayor honoured

Chennai: In a yet another accomplishment to his fitness regime and Marathon goals, Saidapet MLA and former Chennai mayor, M Subramanian was conferred with a honorary doctorate on Sunday.

The unstoppable runner, who has completed 51 half marathons was honoured by the World Records University, London, with the doctorate at New Delhi. Subramanian, who is among 38 persons to be honoured, received the degree from the varsity Vice Chancellor Thomas. Speaking to Deccan Chronicle from the Indira Gandhi Airport, New Delhi, the legislator recalled about that horrific incident, which changed the course of his life.

“I had met with an accident in 2004, which ended with a terrible knee fracture. When the doctors had lost hope on the complete recovery, I was adamant to rebuild everything. It has happened with regular yoga sessions,” M Subramanian told DC.

A chronic diabetes patient, Subramanian took up running in 2014 and there was no looking back. Umpteen numbers of obstacles had not demotivated him.

“I used to become like a dead body after the two hours run. Severe cramps and exhaustion acted as deterrents. Regular practice and few health tips that includes drinking lemon juice mixed salt water is helping me,” he mentioned.

Amid his busy schedule, which includes meeting people from his constituency and working for the party, M. Subramanian allocates two-and-half hours to running, which has changed his perspective in life.

“I run from 5 am to 7.30 am in the avenues of Guindy. Appreciation from the people has been a great booster as I have received over 2.82 lakhs likes on my facebook pages,” said the legislator, with the sense of pride in his tone.

He has participated in Marathon events in various countries including Australia, Italy and Katar. “I usually complete a half marathon of 21 kilometres within 2.30 hours,” he added. “I have no restrictions in diet. But, I ensure burning the calories by working out,” he concluded, revealing his success mantra.