Running is an addiction: Prasad Acharya, Vice-President, Capgemini

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 how they manage to find time to pursue doing what they love the most.

Today, we have the privilege of conversing with Prasad Acharya, the Vice-President of Capgemini. Having travelled the world with 18 years of experience in the IT industry, Prasad’s hobbies include music, movies and, of course, running. Here he tells us about his passion for running. Excerpts below:

How and when did you first start running?

I first started running back in school. The 1500 metre run was my favourite.

Which was the first run you participated in?

I have been running 10k since my college days. Among the professional runs, I have run the Standard Chartered Marathon in Singapore and Mumbai, and then Bangalore Marathon. I have been an avid long distance runner for a long time. The longest run I have participated in has been the half-marathon, both in Mumbai and Bangalore.

How do you go about preparing for a run?

I need only a few days of preparation. Initially, I start with the gym and run 2-3 kms for a few days, and then hit the street to get the gradients and get used to the real conditions.

Do you follow a diet in preparation of a run?

I don’ t follow any particular diet.

What kind of kit do you use for running?

I use light clothes, a watch to help me with the time, my Nike running shoes, and a cap at times to protect me from the heat. I don’t drink during a run, but I do pour some water on myself if it’s extremely hot! I don’t use any supplements at all!

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

I have participated in every TCS 10k run since its inception.

What are the other runs you participate in?

I have also participated in the Standard Chartered Mumbai Marathon.

What other sport do you play or follow?

I follow cricket, especially the IPL, and badminton keenly.

Who is your favourite sportsman?

Rahul Dravid is my favourite sportsman.

Do you have any message for our readers who wish to start running?

You just need to start and you will never stop! Running is an addiction you can’t ever have enough of! Get running!

Along with the run, Prasad is also raising funds through Capgemini’s CSR initiative, which supports Nanhi Kali foundation (education for the girl child). Capgemini supports by matching a rupee to every rupee he raises. Capgemini is into CSR in a big way and Prasad says he gets tremendous support from his colleagues as well as from his company for raising funds.

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