A mother of two is on a mission to set a new Guinness World Record by running the Manchester Marathon in a saree in under three hours and 50 minutes, aiming to inspire women from all cultural backgrounds to run comfortably. Madhusmita Jena, also known as Madu, hails from Stockport, Greater Manchester, and views running as more than just exercise.
Growing up in various countries across the Middle East and Africa, Madu started running in Dubai in 2008 after feeling isolated as a new mother. Initially joining a running group for some “me” time, she unexpectedly completed a 16km run on her first day and fell in love with the experience. Despite the challenges of motherhood, she went on to achieve impressive milestones, including completing her first marathon in three hours and 49 minutes while still nursing her infant son.
Now 46, Madu, a former banker turned teacher, is gearing up for her 42nd marathon, aiming to surpass her personal best of three hours and 27 minutes. An advocate for women runners, she has previously completed marathons in a saree, symbolizing empowerment and breaking stereotypes. As she prepares for her upcoming record-breaking attempt, Madu is adapting her training routine to accommodate menopausal changes and inspire more women, especially those from diverse backgrounds, to pursue running.
In addition to her personal goals, Madu is fundraising for Heaton School in Stockport, where she teaches children with severe learning difficulties. She aims to provide an eye-gaze device to aid pupils with Cerebral Palsy in controlling computer screens using eye movements, a cause close to her heart.
Through her remarkable journey as a runner and educator, Madu continues to set an example of determination and empowerment, encouraging women to prioritize self-care and challenge societal norms around physical activity and motherhood.