April Runner of the Month: Kanishak Tekriwal

Kanishak Tekriwal may love running backwards - but he has his eyes set forward.

Ever since he got into running by signing up for the Philadelphia Marathon in 2021, he’s been aiming for bigger goals - and has made North Brooklyn Runners an integral part of meeting them. Whether it’s a 50K or - yes - a running backward marathon, we love seeing Kanishak at weekly runs to the Cheer Squad. And that’s why he’s one of our April runners of the month.

When did you join NBR and why?

I joined NBR in January 2023. My main reason for joining was the camaraderie of group runs specially for the harder workouts like track and plyo, which I would never have done by myself. Has helped me get a lot faster. 

In what ways have you been involved with NBR?

I have been doing 5-6 of the weekly runs and plyo also. Have come for cheering when I am not participating in the races.

What do you do when you're not running?

When I am not running I can be found driving my truck around the city, managing Berios residential and commercial construction projects. 

How did you initially get into running?

A friend had signed up for the Philadelphia marathon in 2021 and convinced me that I could do it too. 

What is your favorite race distance?

Hard to pick one, I think full marathons are my favorite as they push us to find and exceed our physical and mental limits. 

Best running memory?

Seeing the NBR cheer squad at mile 25 of Philadelphia 2023 and getting a second wind for a strong finish. 

Favorite running route in NYC?

Again very tough to pick one- green point to Queensboro Bridge to Central Park and then down the West Side Highway and finish at 14th Street has been a go rear run for a Sunday. 

What has running taught you or changed about you?

Running has taught me that anything is possible with discipline and consistency. 

Favorite post-race food?

Icecream icecream icecream

What do you think is the worst part about being a runner?

Saying no to other social commitments/ avoiding Saturday night parties 

Best advice to running newbies?

Focus on heart rate and forget about pacing. Make sure to do strength training and interval training at least once a week. 

Current running goal?

I want to run a 50km ultramarathon.

Any other fun running facts about you?

Running backwards is super fun and I may try to do a full marathon running backwards some day.