Is he solar powered or does he have little motors under his shoes that we all can’t see?

The latest person to join the RFL constellation of star runners is none other than Yasuhiro Honda!

For all those present at the Bangalore Ultra 2009 one of the most enduring memories will be the effortless manner in which Yasuhiro Honda completed 100 kilometers. After completing his 100 km in 10:23:39, we had a hard time catching up with him even after the event

Well, we did get to speak to him and here is what Yasuhiro had to say about his love for running and what it means to him.


Q1. How long have you been running and when did you start?

A1. I have been running for about 25 years since I joined Toyota. Toyota has a very strong running culture which influenced me very much and I decided to take up running.

Q2. What do you enjoy about running?

A2. Running gives us uncountable benefits. However personally speaking, running keeps me stress free and I can go out drinking beer which I enjoy. Another thing I like is running together with all my fellow runners from the various RFL running groups. I would like to make more friends with all the runners I meet.

Q3. Which are the events you have taken part in and what are your best timings?

A3. In Bangalore, The Bangalore Midnight Marathon in January 2009 was my first race. I took part in the Full Marathon category and met Mr Rishi whom I now call ‘Captain’.

Thanks to this event I came to know about Runners for Life also. Personally speaking for me record timings do not matter, enjoyment is most important.

Q4. Your advice to someone who wants to start running?

A4. My advice for someone who wants to start running is don’t think seriously, just take it easy and enjoy. Running should be fun. If you feel a bit tired, just slow down or walk.

Q5. How does it feel after completing 100 km at the Bangalore Ultra 2009 and what advice do you have for people attempting the same?

A5. Everybody has a challenge that they must overcome, the tougher the challenge the more confidence you get once you complete it. 100 km was a challenge which I wanted to complete.
I would like to thank all the runners who encouraged me while I was on the track.
They are the actual winners.

My advice for the 100 km runners is “take it easy and keep your own pace”, so that you can enjoy running the entire distance.

There it is - the overriding message from Mr Honda was that no matter the distance you must enjoy the running.

With the end of another running season, we would like to wish all our runners a fantastic and enjoyable running season in 2010.