Iola Hopkinson (in picture) from Britain recently participated in a marathon, the Mawkyrwat Ultra, that was held in Shngimulein, Mawkyrwat. It was a “life changing experience”, she said in a letter to a friend in Shillong. Below is an account of the runner about the place and the people here:
What an incredible, life changing experience the Mawkyrwat Ultra Marathon was for me, a British girl travelling alone to one of the remotest corners of India. As we left Shillong I was amazed and interested to hear that this region of Meghalaya is famed for producing incredibly talented runners. The speed and ease with which these village farmers can run the hills around Mawkyrwat has been compared to the Tarumara Indians. It was once we had arrived at the hamlet of Shngimawlein, where the race participants were being hosted, that I started to get really excited about the opportunity to run with some of India’s best runners, who are all so humble, welcoming and kind.
I learnt so much about these incredible people, their way of life and their beautiful countryside over the course of the weekend. The running route was the most challenging and beautiful I have ever done. The rough roads and endless undulations of the route would not have been such fun without the locals lining the entire route urging the runners on, and the aid stations and volunteers who accompanied the runners on bikes.
I can only extend my deepest gratitude for the way we were welcomed into their homes and lives. I feel so lucky to have been a part of this historic, inaugural running race and hope that it continues to take place for many years to come and bring many more runners from around the world to this special place.
