Pune Doctor Triumphs in South Africa’s Toughest Marathon

Dr. Prasanna Butala, a renowned anaesthetist from Pune, has achieved a remarkable feat by completing the prestigious “Comrades Ultra Marathon” in South Africa. This gruelling 90 km race, known as one of the toughest in the world, saw Dr. Butala cross the finish line in 11 hours and 22 minutes, proudly raising the Indian flag on the African continent.

The Comrades Ultra Marathon stretches from Durban to Pietermaritzburg, covering a distance filled with challenging climbs and tricky turns, earning it the nickname “The Ultimate Human Race” and “The Valley of a Thousand Hills.” This event attracts fitness enthusiasts from around the globe.

To qualify for the Comrades Ultra Marathon, participants must complete a full marathon in under 4 hours and 49 minutes, or a 50 km race in under 5 hours and 49 minutes. Those who meet the criteria undergo six months to a year of rigorous training to prepare for the 90 km challenge, which must be completed within 12 hours. The race also includes several cutoff points, where runners must reach specific distances within set times to avoid elimination.

Dr. Butala practices as an anaesthetist in Pune. He was inspired by Dr. Jitendra Khasgiwale, a renowned dental surgeon from Mahad, to take on the Comrades Ultra Marathon. Remarkably, Dr. Butala completed the marathon without any coaching, relying solely on his hard work and self-discipline.