Run with Exadel
As marathon season approaches, runners around the world are lacing up their shoes and gearing up for the exciting races ahead. At Exadel, we care about our employees’ well-being and are committed to supporting their personal initiatives and passions.
Whether it’s a local 5K or a full marathon, we cheer on our runners from start to finish, celebrating their dedication with pride. Let’s spotlight some of our avid runners, explore their love for the sport, and discover how running fuels their productivity at work. Get inspired with Ulugbek Abirov, Aliaksandr Liakh, and Maria Rojas, representing Exadel offices in Uzbekistan, Poland, and Colombia.
Stay tuned for more updates on our “Run with Exadel” initiative. Let’s make this marathon season unforgettable! #RunWithExadel
Ulugbek Abirov is a Software Engineer from the Tashkent office in Uzbekistan. He runs to keep his body and mind in shape and likes to test his abilities in more natural surroundings. Last year, he participated in a mountain style ultramarathon in Zaamin National Park.
How did you get into running?
I have many friends who are passionate about running. We even formed a community specifically about traveling and running together. If you run in nature, it’s also a chance to bring additional beauty to your day!
What’s your most memorable running experience?
Last year, I participated in Zaamin Ultra, an ultramarathon held at Uzbekistan’s Zaamin National Park. It’s a mountain-style race with tracks at 2,500 m above sea level. My impressions are unforgettable: wonderful natural scenery, passionate people, the energy of the entire event, and a triumphant finish.
What advice would you give to new runners?
Find your people! I realized that running is not only about health and fitness but also about the people you meet or become close to. Sharing this activity with friends also helps you through the more challenging moments of the pursuit and contributes to the sheer joy of running!
Aliaksandr Liakh is a Senior DevOps Software Engineer from Warsaw, Poland. He first started running as an idea to get fit and spend time with friends. Now, it’s a true passion, and he has some ambitious plans this November - finishing a marathon in Athens.
How did you get into running?
I started in 2008, mainly to keep fit. I did short runs in a nearby stadium with my friends. With time, I felt much stronger physically, so I decided to try out longer distances and, soon afterward, races.
What’s your most memorable running experience?
Last year’s 45th Warsaw Marathon 2023 was great. We ran together in bright Exadel t-shirts and stood out from the crowd. Our team included colleagues from different Polish cities, so it was a unique team-building running challenge.
Run with Exadel: Exadel Poland team at 45 Warsaw Marathon
What does running give you?
I run to maintain a healthy lifestyle, which balances out the hours spent sitting in front of the computer. Running teaches how to achieve your goals. It’s a dynamic way of meditation that helps clear my mind and organize my thoughts.
What advice would you give to new runners?
Listen to your body and try different styles until you find the one you enjoy the most. Remember, sport should be a source of pleasure. I recommend joining local ParkRun groups. They are free and held all over the world. I encourage everybody to join and am proud to say I finished 150 of them.
Maria Rojas is an Associate QA Engineer who represents our team at Exadel Colombia. She started running as a child to improve her lung health and is currently training to complete her first marathon.
How did you get into running?
I started running with my dad when I was 8 years old. As a child, I suffered from pneumonia, and doctors recommended running to improve my health. So far, I have focused on the 21-kilometer distance. I have run it 10 times, with a best time of under 2 hours. My next goal is to try running a marathon!
What does running give you?
Running has become my therapy; it gives me energy and helps me release stress. I love the feeling after a good workout and realizing I can achieve my goals. It helps me stay disciplined and keep believing in myself.
What tips can you give to someone who wants to start running?
Start with a slow pace that lets you enjoy what you’re doing. If you like it, get some good running shoes and join a training group. Don’t compare yourself to anyone, and focus on celebrating your victories.
Was this article useful for you?
Get in the know with our publications, including the latest expert blogs
Advance Your Career
Work with top-tier engineers on global projects