New Delhi is gearing up for a historic running spectacle as over 30,000 athletes from across the globe converge for the New Delhi Marathon on Sunday. Boxing icon Vijender Singh and tennis star Rohan Bopanna will flag off the event at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, setting the tone for an unforgettable day of endurance and unity.
This year’s edition stands out with participants hailing from 31 countries, 490 cities, and 32 Indian states and union territories, cementing its status as a truly international affair. Runners will compete in four categories: full marathon (42.195 km), half marathon (21.0975 km), 10 km, and 5 km races, each promising fierce competition and personal triumphs.
Elite Indian marathoners like Anish Thapa, Man Singh, Gopi T, and others including Beliyappa, Dr. Kartik, Akshay Saini, Bhagirathi Bisht, Nirmaben Thakor Bharatji, Ashwini Madan Jadhav, Disket Dolma, and Stanjzin Dolkar will push the limits. The event doubles as a qualifying race for the upcoming Asian Games, adding extra stakes.
In a heartfelt inclusion, 20 visually impaired athletes will also run, showcasing the marathon’s commitment to diversity. Organizers have raised Rs 10 lakh, which will go to the Athletics Federation of India to bolster junior athletes’ training facilities.
NEB Sports Race Director and CMD Nagraj Adiga emphasized, ‘The New Delhi Marathon is more than a race; it’s a celebration of human spirit and unity. With such global participation and an inclusive approach, we’re proud to create a platform for every athlete to soar.’ As the green flag waves, expect inspiration to ripple far beyond the finish line.