Dubai: An intense race is expected in the Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon wheelchair event. A world-class field of racers which includes nine-time world champion and double Paralympic gold medallist Marcel Hug of Switzerland is here.
Hug is an epitome of success earned through determination by fighting the toughest of odds. Born with spina bifida, a birth defect where there is incomplete closing of the backbone and membranes around the spinal cord, he has stunned everyone through his performances in four Paralympic Games and earned the nickname ‘The Silver Bullet’.
Speaking to Gulf News, Hug said: “It is very important for the mind to compete in races. If you win a race, it is a motivation for the next one and the hard work one has to put in. It helps me for the future and I try to be the best in the world or try and produce the best performance as you can.”
Though confined to wheelchair, he always dreamt to win: “I wanted to always compete. It was a challenge to compete in Paralympic and win a medal.”
When asked what was the secret behind winning the numerous World and European medals, Hug said: “It is just training, good quality of training, lot of support around from family, sponsors, from associations, and my coach has helped me. I train six days a week, about 25 to 30 hours through the week.”
Hug will be participating in the Dubai Marathon for the first time. “I have visited Dubai many times but it will be the first time taking part in the Dubai Marathon, he said. “I heard from other competitors that this is a good marathon and has a very fast course for us.”
Hug revealed that competition in the wheelchair segment has increased over the years. “In the last few years, I have seen wheelchair racing standard getting higher.”
Hug faces a tough challenge from Dubai Marathon’s defending champion Rafa Botello of Spain, who won in 1 hour 31 minutes and 19 seconds beating Irish rival Patrick Monahan last year.
