Ketan Abhonkar aims to popularize joggling in India with his debut at the Kolkata race.
Ketan Abhonkar will introduce joggling, a blend of juggling and running, to India at the Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata 2024, showcasing extraordinary endurance and coordination.
JAMSHEDPUR: The Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata 2024 will witness Pune-based athlete Ketan Abhonkar attempting his first joggling performance on December 15, 2024.
Joggling, an intriguing sport that combines juggling three balls while running, is a test of both physical endurance and mental concentration.
Despite its rising recognition in other parts of the world, joggling remains unfamiliar to most sports enthusiasts in India.
Abhonkar’s participation aims to introduce the sport to a broader audience while highlighting its unique demands.
“This is more than just a personal challenge,” Abhonkar shared. “I want to inspire people to think differently about endurance sports and explore new ways to push their limits.”
Training and Sporting Achievements
Abhonkar is no stranger to marathons, having successfully completed events like the Tata Mumbai Marathon, Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, and Pune International Marathon.
However, the upcoming event in Kolkata will be his first formal joggling attempt over a 25-kilometer distance.
To prepare for this unusual feat, Abhonkar has been undergoing intense training, focusing on perfecting his balance and coordination while maintaining running stamina.
His previous joggling records include completing a half marathon while juggling, achievements recognized in platforms like India Book of Records and World Records India.
“Combining two demanding skills is extremely challenging,” noted a sports expert. “It’s fascinating to see how Ketan is pioneering joggling in the country.”
A Unique Element at Tata Steel World 25K
The Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata, a World Athletics Gold Label Race, promises a lively environment with over 20,000 participants.
Abhonkar’s effort will add a one-of-a-kind element to the event, offering spectators an opportunity to witness a rare athletic feat.
Tata Steel, as a strong proponent of fitness and sports, continues to provide a global platform for athletes to showcase their abilities.
The fusion of juggling and running is expected to grab the attention of runners and inspire others to attempt joggling.
Abhonkar’s performance could mark the beginning of increased awareness and interest in this creative sport across India.
The Idea of Juggling with 3 Balls
Asked about how how he came up with the idea of juggling three balls while running a marathon, and what inspired him to keep perfecting this unusual skill, Ketan told Town Post: “I have been running marathons since 2017 and the pandemic made me hooked to the sport of juggling as we all were locked at home. Later I was keen on seeing the hybrid combination of both sports and took baby steps to the official events starting from 5 km, 10km, 21km and now 25km at the prestigious TSW25K in Kolkata coming Sunday.”
He added: “My next goal is 42km Joggling. The act of ‘Joggling’ brings a smile on onlookers, strangers, fellow runners and that keeps me going and improving. Every run I do now I Joggle and try to improve my performance. Earlier while running I used to watch the Juggling balls continuously and now with practice I can at least give a look at the photographers on the race route.”
Speaking exclusively to Town Post, Ketan further said: “Long-distance running itself is a demanding sport which tests your endurance, patience and dedication. Juggling while Running is a meditation for me and I would like more and more Indians to take up running or Juggling or both or rather any sport. The ultimate aim being to be a better and healthy version of ourselves in the years to come. “
