Krishan Vara is taking on a series of ultra challenges during 2026 following the loss of his uncle and two cousins, who all lived with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. He tells us why he’s doing this in their memory.
“Every step is in memory of those we’ve lost”: Why I’m taking on a series of ultra challenges
I’m on a personal fitness journey this year and wanted to commit to a series of endurance events, after completing my first one last year. Raising money for Muscular Dystrophy UK is part of this journey as it’s a charity close to my heart and muscular dystrophy has had a devastating impact on my family.
Before I was born, we lost my uncle, and I have since lost two cousins to the same condition, one of them very recently at the end of last year.
My cousins were always full of positivity whenever I saw them despite living with a life-limiting condition. I truly believe they would have supported this challenge — not for themselves, but for the chance to help others living with a condition.
The ultra challenges
Last summer, I completed the 50km Pembrokeshire Coastal Path challenge and that kick-started my passion for doing this challenge.
On Saturday 4 July, I’m taking part in the charity’s Pedal, Paddle, Peak challenge in the Lake District – cycling 34km, kayaking 3km and hiking 17km to reach the summit of Mount Helvellyn, and I’ll be joined by my friend Nick Herdman.
This year I’ve already completed the 70km Brecon to Cardiff Classic in March and the 50km Pembrokeshire Coastal Path in June. I’ll complete the Kielder Trail Marathon in October and I’m aiming to do my own 70km Coventry way before the end of the year
Making that ultra difference
I’m aware that I’m incredibly lucky not to have muscular dystrophy. I’m mobile. I’m able to train. I’m able to push my body voluntarily, which is something people with Duchenne never get the choice to do. That’s why I want to use that ability for something positive.
That’s what makes this challenge feel meaningful — putting my body through something difficult, moving, running, and walking for those who can’t.
Being honest I’m not an athlete, and I don’t even particularly like running. What draws me to ultra runs isn’t the running itself, it’s the personal challenge behind them. Ultra distances strip everything back. They become about resilience, mindset, and continuing to move forward when things get uncomfortable.
I’m fully committed to the training, and what I lack in running ability I try to make up for with grit, stubbornness, and a refusal to quit — unless I’m genuinely injured. These events are as much a mental challenge as a physical one.
A huge enabler is having the love, support and understanding of my wife, Lisa. She is my event support crew, blesses me with nutritious meals and makes sure I have clean kit. This gives me that additional capacity to focus on the training.
Every step is run in memory of those we’ve lost, and in support of families still living with this condition every day. Any amount raised will go a long way to help the charity support individuals and families affected by muscular dystrophy and fund research. I haven’t set a target — I’ll be fundraising throughout the year and appreciate anything people feel able to give.
Support Krishan’s fundraising
By supporting Krishan’s mission, you’ll help fund research and provide support for people living with a muscle wasting condition.
Inspired by Krishan’s story?
There are so many ways you can fundraise for people living with a muscle wasting condition. No idea is too big or too small.
