India’s top runners, including T. Gopi, Srini B. and Anish Thapa, are set to participate in the 9th edition of the New Delhi Marathon on February 25. The event will see over 19,000 athletes compete for a chance to qualify for the Paris Olympic Games later this year.
Among the lead female runners are Nirmaben Thakor and Ashini Jadhav. Fitness Enthusiast Soha Ali Khan and cricket star Irfan Pathan will add star power as the event’s Brand Ambassador and participant, respectively.
Organised under the patronage of the Athletics Federation of India and Fit India, the Apollo Tyres New Delhi Marathon has gained recognition as the country’s National Marathon. The route will take participants through iconic landmarks in Delhi such as Humayun’s Tomb and Lodhi Garden.
With meticulous planning by NEB Sports, the marathon will host 19,000 participants from 289 cities, 27 states, and 19 countries. The event boasts one of the largest turnouts in Indian sport, with participants gearing up for categories including Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K.
Adille Sumariwalla, President of the Athletic Federation of India, expressed happiness at the response to the National Marathon. Meanwhile, Satish Sharma of Apollo Tyres Ltd. applauded the overwhelming support from the running community for the event.
ASICS India and Asia will serve as the official sports goods partner for the marathon, providing high-performance footwear and apparel. NGOs like the Sai Vishwanath Memorial Trust and Guide Runners for the vision-impaired will also champion diversity in sports at the event.
Visually impaired runner Ankur Dhama and a team from the Champion in Me program of Bangalore Schools of Sports will showcase their determination at the race. Additionally, HIV-infected children from the “Positive Running Programme” of Ananya Trust will participate, highlighting inclusivity in sports.
