It began with just 3 kilometers. A gym entry at the Pune International Marathon, almost on a whim. No one watching, no finish-line fanfare, just a young woman testing the waters of what running could feel like. That single step into the racing world was small by distance, but massive in impact. Because from that moment, Sadiya never looked back.
What started as curiosity quickly grew into discipline, and soon into an all-consuming passion that now sees her covering 90 to 110 kilometers every week. Today, she isn’t just running for herself — she’s running for something much bigger.
From Pune Streets to Ultra Dreams
For Sadiya, the road hasn’t always been smooth. Pune’s infrastructure often makes long-distance training difficult. The lack of safe, well-lit stretches and running support means she has to travel back to her native place just to log those crucial long runs. And still, night or evening runs remain her biggest battle — one she hasn’t quite conquered yet. “I’m still struggling,” she admits. “But I’m doing it all alone.”
This grit — the decision to keep going despite challenges — defines her story. Where many would find excuses, Sadiya finds a way.
A Week in Motion
Her training plan is aggressive, a word she embraces with pride. Week after week, she clocks close to a century of kilometers, balancing tempo runs, easy recovery jogs, and those all-important long runs. It’s a rhythm that demands both body and mind, but it’s also what sharpens her for the ultras she dreams of.
When asked what gets her lacing up on days she’d rather stay in bed, her answer is simple but powerful: the vision of flying India’s flag on a world stage. Running for personal glory matters, but what truly fuels her is the thought of representing her country and running for social causes close to her heart.
The Mindset That Moves Her
“Don’t stop until you achieve it.” That’s not just a line for Sadiya — it’s her mantra. It shows up in the lonely kilometers, in the self-supported night runs, and in the constant grind of training without shortcuts.
Social media was where she first stumbled upon advertisements and videos that introduced her to compression gear. Today, compression sleeves and socks have become a part of her toolkit, helping her manage recovery while keeping up with her punishing weekly mileage.
Advice for Beginners
For anyone just stepping into the world of running, Sadiya’s voice carries both empathy and authority. “Start slowly. Believe in yourself. Set targets for every year and achieve them.” It’s the same approach she’s used to transform herself from a casual 3km runner into an ultrarunner with dreams painted in national colors.
A Dream Without Finish Lines
Ask her what the ultimate goal looks like, and her answer is as ambitious as it is selfless: to contribute to society through running, and to see India’s flag fly high on the world stage. It’s about pride, but also about purpose. Running, for her, is not just a sport — it’s a way to give back.
Closing Reflection
Sadiya’s story is proof that you don’t need perfect conditions, cutting-edge infrastructure, or even a crowd to cheer you on. What you need is the fire to keep going, the patience to build year after year, and the courage to dream beyond limits. Her journey started with just 3km and reached to representing India in 24 hour world championship and counting more.
Something to cover abt mu goal of "making India flag fly high"
Follow her miles and motivation: @ultrarunner_sadiya
About Sorgen Spotlight
Each week we shine a light on runners who inspire us to lace up, learn, and live better. Stay tuned for more real stories, real sweat, and the science-backed gear that keeps our community moving.
