Bal Joshi Makes History Running a Marathon in Daura Suruwal in Antarctica

Denver, 1  Feb

Nepali-American runner Bal Joshi has made history by completing a marathon in Antarctica while wearing the traditional Nepali Daura Suruwal. He is the first person ever to run a marathon on the icy continent in this traditional attire.

Joshi described the experience as challenging but manageable, saying that running in Antarctica’s snow in traditional Nepali clothing—something many thought nearly impossible—felt surprisingly comfortable. On Saturday morning, in temperatures as low as minus 20°C, he completed the full 42-kilometer marathon, proudly raising both the Nepali and American flags at the finish line.

The marathon is part of the World Marathon Challenge, also called the “777 Marathon”, which spans seven continents over seven consecutive days. In this first series, 56 runners from 32 countries participated. Held annually since 2015, the event is considered extremely demanding.

Joshi chose to run in Daura Suruwal to showcase Nepali culture and heritage to the world. After Antarctica, he traveled to Cape Town, South Africa, for the next marathon on 1 February. The series will continue in Perth, Dubai, Madrid, Brazil, and will conclude in Miami, USA, on 6 February.

Born in Surkhet, 42-year-old Joshi has lived in the United States for over 20 years. He currently resides in Grapevine, Texas, and works as a banker.

He began running to stay fit, and since 2021, he has also used running to support social causes and humanitarian work. Over the years, Joshi has completed more than two dozen marathons worldwide.