One Year on the Road

Daily miles: 34.74 | Total miles: 10,994.66

My alarm rang, and I knew instantly—it was my last day of a full run here in India. One year of running. I showered, got ready, and at 6:30 a.m. sharp I walked up the stairs outside. Gopi had just arrived at the exact same moment. He was so happy that the timing was perfect. Only Harish was six minutes late, coming in on his scooter.

I so deeply enjoyed the ride back to my starting point with these two wonderful men. We picked up the buggy, I packed, and it was time to say goodbye to Gopi. Then Harish ran with me for the first half mile—such a generous way to start the day.

The terrain was hilly. The morning was cool and pleasant, but soon it became very hot and humid. Still, I truly enjoyed this last full day on the road and especially the conversations along the way.

The first young man I met was thrilled when he realized I had stayed at his high school the night before. He wished me all the best—and shortly after, he rode up again on his bike to hand me a water bottle and some cookies. It’s incredible how giving and generous people are here.

Around mile 13, I met Gopi’s son, who was driving from Kumta to Karwar. Gopi had already told me the day before that if I had any problems or needed anything, his son would help me. I had said I would most likely be fine, but I was really looking forward to meeting him. We had a short video call with Harish, and I felt so grateful to know such kind and supportive people.

At mile 15, I stopped for a coffee. By then, everything around me felt familiar. India has become a place I feel I could always return to and feel comfortable in. At a toll station, I met another man who offered his number in case I needed assistance. I find that so reassuring.

I enjoyed seeing the cows roaming freely everywhere, just an integral part of daily life. I enjoyed the short conversations with shop owners as I bought liters of water to stay well hydrated.

When I arrived in Karwar, I sat down on the steps of the hotel where I had been told I’d have a room. Just seconds later, a man introduced himself—right as I was typing a message to the person helping me with the room. He took me upstairs to a café owned by Dr. Suraj, the president of the Karwar Bicycle Club.

Not long after, a whole group gathered around the table with me. The members of the bicycle club welcomed me warmly and officially. I received a welcome necklace, had a Q&A session, and then they showed me the room—an apartment, and a very nice one. Thank you so much to KBC and Dr. Suraj.

I had about 20 minutes to settle in, and at 6 p.m. I was picked up by Nagappa, Chandrakant, and Preeti for a Karwar city tour. They showed me a temple, the beaches, we drank fresh coconut, and then went for a pure veg, super delicious dinner. They gifted me fresh cashew nuts—this region is famous for growing them abundantly.

I was home by 9. I still had a few things to arrange, but mostly I felt it: one year on the road. Another great day.

I could write so much more, but tonight I choose sleep.

Thank you for your support. I appreciate it very much. Andrea