Every race has the power to change lives, not just for those who cross the finish line, but also for the volunteers and marshals who make it happen.
For Payal Kritiya, Team Leader Marketing at Motibhai, the Suva Marathon 2025 inspired her journey from event organiser to first-time participant. Having worked behind the scenes supporting previous races, she witnessed first-hand how sporting events bring communities together and encourage healthier lifestyles.
This year, she’s swapping her supporting role for running shoes and a bib.
“I wanted to experience the Rexona Suva Marathon from a participant’s perspective,” says Payal.
“Running the event is a personal challenge and reflects my commitment to the healthy and active lifestyle the marathon promotes.”
Like many working women, balancing work and personal commitments isn’t always easy. But Payal believes even short exercise sessions make a difference, helping her manage stress and stay energised. Her message to anyone thinking about joining is simple: “Believe in yourself and take the first step. You don’t need to be an experienced runner, just start at your own pace and enjoy the journey.”
Whether you’re a volunteer, a walker, or a runner, you never know where your first race might lead. Sometimes, all it takes is showing up.
Q and A with Payal.
1. What was your job in previous running events? And which running events did you do? In previous running events, I worked behind the scenes as part of the event coordination and marketing team. My responsibilities included planning event logistics, coordinating with sponsors and stakeholders, overseeing promotional activities, managing participant communications, and ensuring that operations ran smoothly from preparation through to race day. I have been involved in several community and corporate sporting events, each providing valuable experience in delivering successful events.
2. How did it happen for you to get involved in the first place? My passion for sports, community engagement, and event management naturally led me to become involved in running events. Through my role in marketing and customer engagement, I saw how sporting events bring people together while promoting healthier lifestyles. It was an opportunity to combine my professional skills with something I genuinely enjoy.
3. Was it your first time involved in a running event? No, it was not my first experience. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to support and coordinate several sporting events. Also, a passionate Netball Player.
4. On the day of the race, how did you find it? Did it meet your expectations? Race days are always exciting and rewarding. Although there are many moving parts that require constant attention, seeing participants cross the finish line with a sense of accomplishment makes all the hard work worthwhile. The event met and, in many ways, exceeded my expectations because of the positive feedback from participants, the strong community support, and the teamwork demonstrated by everyone involved. Suva Marathon 2026
5. Why do you want to run this year? Why this event? This year, I want to experience the Suva Marathon from a participant’s perspective while continuing to support it as an event coordinator. Running the event represents a personal challenge and reflects my commitment to living the healthy and active lifestyle that the marathon promotes. As the coordinator for the Rexona Suva Marathon, I believe it is important to lead by example and encourage others to embrace fitness.
6. Did you set a training plan to prepare for the run? Are you exercising more leading up to the event? Not really – honestly netball and hockey practice keeps me on my toes, so does work.
7. How do you think you will feel at the end of the race? At this point I cannot confirm however – I believe I will feel an overwhelming sense of pride, accomplishment, and gratitude. Completing the race will not only represent a personal achievement but will also be rewarding because I will witness the success of an event that so many people have worked hard to deliver. Crossing the finish line alongside hundreds of participants will be a memorable moment.
8. What advice would you give to other women or athletes who are thinking of signing up for this race? My advice is to believe in yourself and simply take the first step. You do not need to be an experienced runner to participate. Start at your own pace, remain consistent with your training, and focus on enjoying the journey rather than comparing yourself to others. Events like the Rexona Suva Marathon are about personal achievement, community, and celebrating a healthy lifestyle. Every participant, whether walking or running, has something to be proud of. General
9. What do you like about Suva Marathon events? What I appreciate most about the Rexona Suva Marathon is its ability to unite people from all walks of life. It brings together families, friends, corporate teams, experienced athletes, and first-time participants in a positive and encouraging environment. The event promotes health, resilience, teamwork, and community spirit while showcasing the vibrant atmosphere of Suva.
10. What are the challenges that you face in making time to exercise? Like many working women, balancing professional responsibilities with personal commitments can make it challenging to maintain a consistent exercise routine. There are days when work schedules are demanding, but I have learned that prioritising my health is essential. Even short exercise sessions make a significant difference, and staying active helps me manage stress, maintain energy, and perform better both personally and professionally.
