Odekta Naibaho

Project commissioned by Strive Indonesia

About the film:
Long distance running is a very lonely sport - it is a sport of endurance, strategy, and persistence.

The film touches on long distance runners’ experiences during a marathon, and how at one point the mind has to push through all adversities and limitations.

The journey of Odekta Naibaho started in a family with humble beginnings, with tough experiences that forced her to question:
“Is this the type of life I want to live?”
She had BIG dreams.
She left her home, started a new life in Jakarta as she trained to be an athlete, graduated from University, and supported her sisters’ education in the process. Years later, she is a celebrated gold medalist national athlete. What is not visible between all these accomplishments are all the life challenges and failures after failures that she had to endure, which makes her stronger.

Just like a saying in Odekta’s native Batak language: ““Sassittongna, molo dipahabisho jatah gagalmu, olo dang olo ho ikkon hasea” which means
“In fact, when you used up your share of failures, there is only success in the end”.

Life needs this long distance runner’s mindset.

The visual symbolism of Odekta leaving her humble home and family to pursue her dreams.

Long distance running is ultimately the race against oneself.

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© 2022 Erwin Darmali Documentaries
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