From Kottayam to Khardung La: Soja Siya’s unbreakable spirit helps her complete the world’s highest marathon

Kottayam native Soja Siya has proven multiple times in her life that she is not a quitter. Soja, probably the first Malayali woman to complete the famous Khardung La Challenge, the world’s highest ultra-marathon, was 35 when she decided to pursue her passion that she had given up years ago. Now, at 47, Soja Siya has achieved the glorious feat of finishing the challenge, which is one of the most difficult marathons. Soja speaks to us about the challenge and how she gained the physical and mental strength to overcome it.

What is Khardung La Challenge?
Khardung La Challenge is a high-altitude ultramarathon held every year in Ladakh. It is considered one of the toughest and highest ultra–distance races in the world. Being physically fit alone is not enough to finish the race, one needs to be mentally strong and resilient to survive the rugged terrains, brutal weather and other unfavourable conditions. About 72 kilometres should be completed at an altitude of 4000 metres within 14 hours. The runner would be out of the race if he/she is unable to complete it within the stipulated time. Soja finished the race in 13 hours and 58 minutes, making her probably the first Malayali woman to complete this highly challenging marathon. Up to 300 runners could participate in the marathon by following strict guidelines. He/should have participated in such events and completed a 50-kilometre ultramarathon in under six hours. One could apply for the Khardung La Challenge only by submitting the details of these races.

Dream run
Soja, who works at KSFE, found time to practise and build her physical and mental strength. “I have been dreaming of participating in this marathon since 2019, when I heard about it for the first time. It was really challenging and was risky too,’’ says Soya, who is also a member of the ITEN runners club in Thiruvananthapuram. It is from this club that Soja got the various details and updates about the event. She had been practising hard for over a year for the Khardung La Challenge. Meanwhile, Soja reached Leh around ten days before the marathon to get used to the conditions.

Family, the support system
"I have enjoyed great support from my family and colleagues. It is only because of their support that I was able to do it. I must also mention club member Praveen Babu, who had participated in the marathon. He had been with me, supporting me every step of the way. Besides, my parents are my greatest support and strength,’’ says Soja, adding that it was not easy for a woman from the conservative Muslim community to take part in such an event.

Overcoming the challenges
Although completing the marathon itself is a significant challenge, overcoming the unpredictable weather conditions was extremely difficult. Soja arrived in Leh around ten days before the race to acclimate to the weather. The marathon starts at 3 am from the Khardong Village. The runners must navigate rugged terrain and endure terrible weather conditions to reach Khardng Pass, the highest point. Meanwhile, it is at this spot that most challengers back out or get disqualified. The marathon that starts from the Khardong Village proceeds via the Khardung mountain pass before ending at La City. One could experience many physical difficulties, like blackouts and breathing problems, at this altitude. Soja also experienced altitude sickness, such as severe headaches and low blood pressure.

Mother’s blessings
Soja suffered minor breathing problems at high altitude. However, she was determined not to quit even though she felt physical discomfort. "I still remember how my mother struggled to breathe when she was ill. I remembered my mother when I, too, struggled to catch my breath while running. I believe that it is because of my mother’s blessings that I survived and completed the race,” notes Soja.

Touching the finishing line
The runners have to cover specific points within the stipulated time to win points. Soja was able to cross the finishing line just two minutes before the marathon ended. Soja vows that she was overwhelmed with countless emotions and inexplicable joy as she touched the finishing line. It was a moment of great pride and happiness for Soja, who overcame many challenges in her life to reach the top of the world.