The 2026 Brooklyn Half was my fifth time running this race, and it was easily the most special one yet.
I finished in 1:28:16 at an average pace of 6:44 per mile, setting a new half-marathon personal record. The result was a 2:36 improvement from the NYC Half in March and a 6:27 course PR. I was also the second Indian finisher.
Breaking 90 minutes in the half marathon was one of my biggest goals for the year. After running 1:30:52 at the NYC Half in March, I knew there was work to do to build the fitness needed to take the next step in only a couple of months.
I worked closely with my coach, Sandi Nypaver, on a well-rounded plan that combined running, strength, mobility, and mindset work. Recovery and sleep became priorities, and I stayed consistent with a clean, high-protein vegan diet. Week by week, workouts and long runs became stronger, faster, and more specific to the goal.
I also kept strength training twice each week, added a weekly mobility and active-recovery session, and incorporated sauna sessions to prepare for race-day conditions.
Race day was a reflection of that consistency. I am grateful to Coach Sandi for helping me get into the best shape of my life and move closer to the long-term goal of a sub-3 marathon.
Fueling plan
I took five PF 30 gels, including two with caffeine: one before the race and four during it. I pre-hydrated with water and LMNT, used water and Gatorade on course, and took five Endurolytes salt tablets to stay ahead of sodium loss.
The Brooklyn Half is always special. This one will stay with me.
