Less than a year after becoming the first Indian to complete a full marathon at the Geographic North Pole, Kolkata-based entrepreneur, explorer and endurance runner Ram Gopal Kothari has created another milestone by becoming the first Indian to finish the Volcano Marathon on Easter Island (Rapa Nui), Chile.
The 42.195-km race was organised by Runbuk, known for hosting endurance marathons in some of the world's most remote locations, including the North Pole Marathon. With this achievement, Kothari became the first Indian to complete both of Runbuk's flagship marathons.
Travelling nearly 24,000 km from Kolkata via Mumbai, Istanbul and Santiago to reach one of the world's most isolated inhabited islands, Kothari also marked his visit to his 80th country. According to official results, 20 runners from across Asia, Europe, North America, South America and Oceania completed the marathon. Kothari finished seventh overall in 5 hours, 5 minutes and 8 seconds.
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"I am honoured to become the first Indian to complete the Volcano Marathon on Easter Island. My first marathon took me to the Geographic North Pole, and now my second has taken me to one of the world's most isolated islands. This journey proves that your beginnings never define your destination," Kothari said.
He described the Volcano Marathon as one of the toughest races he has undertaken. The first half featured continuous climbs and descents on paved roads, while the latter half traversed rugged volcanic trails with steep, technical sections that challenged even experienced runners. Around the 30-km mark, participants climbed towards the Orongo Volcano Crater, with many struggling on the difficult terrain.
Despite the demanding course, Kothari completed the race without cramps or injury, crediting months of disciplined preparation that included long-distance runs, strength training, treadmill elevation sessions and repeated hill simulations at Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata.
He also praised the course for its spectacular scenery, featuring the Pacific Ocean, volcanic landscapes, lush greenery, roaming horses and the iconic Moai statues. "It felt less like running a marathon and more like running through one of the world's greatest open-air museums," he said.
Kothari's latest feat builds on his remarkable journey from a modest upbringing in Kolkata to visiting 80 countries across all seven continents. In 2025, he became the first Indian to complete the full marathon at the Geographic North Pole, while the Volcano Marathon tested his endurance across relentless climbs and volcanic terrain.
Following the race, Kothari will continue his South American tour with visits to Peru's Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain and the Sacred Valley.
Encouraging young Indians, he said, "Dream beyond your circumstances. Your background does not determine your future. Discipline, perseverance and the courage to dream big can take you to extraordinary places."
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