Dubai, UAE – Aakash Nambiar, an Indian expatriate and ultra-marathoner known as ‘Barefoot Mallu,’ recently completed an extraordinary 115-kilometer barefoot run from Hatta to Mushrif Park. This remarkable feat was undertaken to raise crucial awareness for ocean conservation, highlighting the urgent need for community involvement in preserving marine ecosystems.
Barefoot Journey for Ocean Health
Aakash Nambiar, a 36-year-old Keralite based in Dubai, has consistently championed environmental causes through his unique barefoot running initiatives. His latest endeavor, a grueling 17-hour solo run, commenced at 6 AM from the Oman-Dubai border in Hatta and concluded around 11 PM at Mushrif Park. This challenging journey symbolized a deep connection to nature and a commitment to its preservation.
Partnership for a Purpose
For this significant initiative, Nambiar collaborated with Azraq, a Dubai-based non-profit organization dedicated to marine conservation. This partnership aimed to amplify the message of ocean protection and inspire collective action.
- Educate: Informing communities about the critical state of marine environments.
- Motivate: Encouraging individuals to take personal responsibility for ocean health.
- Activate: Mobilizing communities to participate in conservation efforts such as coral reef restoration and marine debris reduction.
Nambiar emphasized the UAE’s progress in ocean conservation, including coral reef preservation and mangrove expansion, underscoring the shared responsibility to maintain clean oceans.
A History of Impactful Runs
Nambiar’s 115km run is the latest in a series of impactful barefoot marathons aimed at promoting various causes:
- 2023: Ran 104km across Dubai landmarks to support the message of COP28.
- 2020: Ran from Abu Dhabi to Dubai to encourage healthy lifestyles during the pandemic.
- International Runs: Participated in marathons in Sri Lanka, Spain, Portugal, and India (including Kashmir) to promote tourism.
His barefoot running style, he notes, not only strengthens his feet but also improves posture, adding a personal benefit to his philanthropic endeavors. Nambiar, who works at an advertising agency, believes that running barefoot signifies our intrinsic link to nature and our duty to protect it, ensuring a thriving marine life for future generations.