When seasoned ultramarathon runner Jacob Thankachen was invited by GEMS Modern Academy, a prominent Dubai school, as the chief guest for Sports Day last year, he had no inkling that this experience would set him on a transformative journey. Thankachen, who is originally from India and whose son studies at the academy, found himself on stage sharing his insights and experiences with young athletes.
Following his motivational speech, Nargish Khambatta, the school Principal, posed a challenge that would change the course of Thankachen’s year. She urged him to run across all seven emirates of the UAE with the goal of raising funds for a school in Nepal. It was this moment that ignited a new passion within him.
“I have never shied away from challenges in life,” Thankachen remarked, reflecting on his journey. His first marathon in 2016 was not a casual endeavor; he opted for the full marathon distance right away. “I always love facing challenges,” he added, highlighting his intrinsic motivation to push limits.
Once he accepted Khambatta’s challenge, Thankachen immersed himself in rigorous training, preparing for what he dubbed the “Run Nepal” initiative. For an entire year, he dedicated himself to a structured regimen, running five kilometers each morning and spending evenings honing his strength and stamina on tennis courts. His commitment was unwavering, rooted in a desire not just to complete a run but to make a meaningful difference.
Last month, the culmination of his efforts paid off as he successfully completed a staggering 250-kilometer run across all seven Emirates in just five days. This monumental feat was more than a personal achievement; it was a catalyst for change, as GEMS Modern Academy partnered with Dubai Cares to raise funds through his efforts.
Thankachen was thrilled by the community response. “The response has been overwhelming. Parents from the school rallied behind the initiative, donating Dh 10 for every kilometer I ran,” he explained. Some parents even contributed over Dh 2,000, illustrating the community’s commitment to the cause and the impact of collective effort.
For someone who has completed eight marathons and multiple ultramarathons as well as the Iron Man competition, the moment he crossed the finish line for the ‘Run Nepal’ project on April 14 was particularly poignant. Thankachen described a sense of fulfillment and pride, knowing his efforts would provide educational opportunities for underprivileged children in Nepal. “It’s very fulfilling because of my run, some kids are going to get an education,” he expressed.
Buoyed by this success, Thankachen feels a renewed responsibility to engage in more charitable endeavors in the future. “It would be an honor for me if I could contribute more to society,” he stated. He acknowledged the advantages of living in Dubai, where world-class facilities and a supportive community make it easier for residents to maintain an active lifestyle. “We have got world-class running tracks, and we can also run in the parks for free,” he noted, emphasizing his gratitude for these opportunities.
Contrast this with the global reality faced by many parents who struggle to afford basic educational resources for their children. Such awareness fuels Thankachen’s determination to participate in future initiatives that can foster positive change. “I will be very happy if I can take part in more such initiatives in future,” he affirmed, signaling his commitment not only to running but to giving back to those in need.
