After serving ten years in the Gurkha Contingent of Singapore Police Force until 2008, Kiran Gurung moved to West Australian city of Perth.
However, the former corporal couldn't contain his passion for running and decided to push his 'military level' fitness. Gurung started running in his full military gear - boots, uniform and the iconic Khukuri. The only thing missing was his rifle.
In 2015, Gurung ran 200 km from Bunbury to Perth to commemorate the 200th anniversary of Gurkha service in the British Army. He completed the run in two days carrying twenty-kilo weight on his back.
"People usually don't question my style of running with the military fatigue and the kit with renowned Nepali knife - the Khukuri. However, there have been a couple of instances where people have raised the flag with the organisers", he told SBS Nepali.
Source: Kiran Gurung
He says once people realise he's a Gurkha, they acknowledge and respect what Gurkhas do.
So does he miss being in the military?
"Of course, I do - else why would I run in the army camouflage carrying 20 odd kilos!", he said.
He also adds running marathons, and half marathons provide him with opportunities to keep his fitness to the level it was during his days in Singapore.
Source: Kiran Gurung
But, my run is not just for fitness says Gurung.
"I raise funds for different charities like Diabetes WA, Alzheimer's WA, Gurkha Welfare Trust."
"After the 2015 earthquake in Nepal, I took part in five marathons to raise funds for the victims", he said.
His next fundraising run will be at this year's Perth City to Surf on 26 August 2018, in support of the Australian Himalayan Foundation's education program in the Himalayas.
"I think it will take me up to six hours to complete the full 42 kilometres of the marathon with 10 kg in my backpack, wearing army boots," he quipped.
Gurung says, running with his Army boot has been a habit now that his hard to get rid of.
"People often ask me if there is a particular reason why I run with boots when they see me", he said.
During the Perth City to Surf being held this weekend, Gurung and his Australian mate, Frank Lane will team up to raise additional funds by selling stubby holders and Khukuris.
Source: Kiran Gurung
"The design in the stubby holder is something that I drew almost 18 years ago, so it is pretty special to me. I hope people like it - it will help my cause with the Australian Himalayan Foundation", Gurung said.
