"If you haven't already started running, you are already too late": Anil Srivatsa, Radiowalla CEO and Co-Founder

Anil Srivatsa

Sportskeeda is proud to present a brand new series – ‘CXOs on the run’. In this series, we converse with industry leaders, entrepreneurs and other high-profile personalities for whom running is a way of life, and ask them how they manage to find time to pursue doing what they love the most.

Today, we are in conversation with Anil Srivatsa, CEO and co-founder of Radiowalla Network Pvt. Ltd and former CEO of IPL franchise Kings XI Punjab. Introduced to running at a young age, he started out as a sprinter before gradually moving to long-distance running.

When and how did you first start running?

I started running to avoid being pestered by my uncle and grandfather, who used to push me to go out and stay fit. This was in my mid-to-late teens. Before that, I was a sprinter and enjoyed speed, and not distance.

Recall your first marathon.

I was 18 when I did my first marathon. It was for the Rotary club of Mumbai and I ran for charity. This run was at Marine Drive and we had to go back and forth on Marine Drive till we completed 42 km. It did not feel so tiring then; in fact, I remember, I had to rush off for a modeling rehearsal soon after as I was part of a fashion show.

How do you go about preparing for a marathon?

Honestly, not very scientifically. But I do start about 4-5 months before the run to build up my endurance. I increase my distance over this period of time, starting from 3-4 km every third or fourth day to no more than 25-30 km till about 2 weeks to the run. I’d like to be a bit more organized and scientific with my next run, so let’s hope I find the right coach.

Do you follow a diet in preparation for a marathon? If yes, describe it.

No, not really. Not until three weeks before the actual run when I start eating a lot of carbs. However, I do drink a lot more water during the entire months in training to stay hydrated.

Do take us through your running kit e.g. shoes, outfit, drinks, supplements etc.

Wow! I am minimalistic… in preparation I mean. I have on me my good old Nike free and my heartbeat. And, of course, the rest of my gear like shorts and a t-shirt. Nothing beyond that.

How often have you participated in the TCS 10k run? Any highlights?

Never! But I hope to, someday soon.

What are the other runs you participate in?

It’s been mostly the Standard Chartered full marathon and Airtel half marathons.

What other sport do you play or follow?

I try and be active on the cricket field and will not pass up on the opportunity to play cricket. I was a serious league cricket player up until recently and then I played in corporate leagues. I find time to go cycling and play golf as well.

Your favourite sportsman?

I used to like Kapil Dev and I do admire a few other in track and field – Carl Lewis comes to mind – among others, like Rahul Dravid who inspires humility.

Any message to our readers who wish to start running?

If you have not already started, you are already too late. But better late than never. This would be the best thing you have done for yourself!

Read the rest of our series here: CXOs on the run