14 Inspirational Women Set the Rhythm for World 10K Bengaluru 2025
The World Athletics Gold Label race, World 10k Bengaluru, will be back for its 17th edition on April 27. As in every edition, the organisers have brought in 14 women pacers who will pave the way in the Open 10K category. One of them is a new face, 42-year-old Shalu Dudeja who has paced over 50 events and will be pacing the 58-minute bus.
Even though Shalu has experienced numerous challenges throughout her career to date, having lost her mother shortly after she got married and her father three years later, she discovered a new passion for distance running – a place of happiness which enabled her to cope with personal tragedy.
She had turned to running as a way of staying in shape and at the same time fighting post-birth health issues - frequent headaches and pains all over the body, which later developed into an addiction that redefined her existence and running provided her with comfort and power.
"Running was my escape, my means to find solace in the midst of pain. But it was my husband, Rohit Raj Dudeja, who gave me wings to fly. He recognized the strength in me when I could not see it myself. Today, every step I take is a tribute to my parents and a testament to my husband's love. I want to prove to everyone that whatever life gives you, you can overcome it", Shalu explained.
Her change is not only physical, losing almost 30 kilograms, but also mental. Shalu's tale connects with her Rohini, Delhi community on a deep level where she motivates a group of 'mother runners' to chase their own ambitions. Shalu's first run at the World 10K, leading the 58-minute pack, is a dream fulfilled where she looks to spread her contagious positivity and motivate other runners to test their limits.
"I am overflowing with thanks and exhilaration. I'd love to have a truly memorable experience for all who are running alongside me, to remind them of the wonders that they are capable of accomplishing", she furthered.
On April 27, Shalu will be part of 13 other committed women pacers, including Divya Madaiah, who will pace the 75-minute bus. Divya, who started her journey with a virtual World 10K Bengaluru in 2020, has experience from nearly 40 events and past pacing experiences in Bengaluru's streets.
"World 10k Bengaluru is the one race that I eagerly await every year. The care that they take for runners and pacers is amazing. Whenever I have a chance to pace for Procam, I will not let it slip by. I run because I love running, I support women and I would like them to understand that the event is not just about racing one another. There are moments in life when you get to pace to the finish line and that brings lots of joy to you. I am eagerly waiting for another wonderful and satisfying race this time too", Divya said.
