Long gone are the days when organizations used to pitch donations door-to-door. The fitness-themed fundraising celebrations like marathon have completely replaced the old-fashioned approach of contributing to a social and noble cause.
It goes without saying but running has been gracefully welcomed by Indians over the past few years and a few high profile marathons have got international recognition, let alone national praise 🙂
Famous Marathons in India
In this article, I bring you 5 insanely famous marathons in the country.
Standard Chartered Mumbai Marathon (SCMM)
Held on the third Sunday of every New Year, Standard Chartered Mumbai Marathon is well accepted as ‘the biggest marathon’ in Asia. Indeed, it the richest marathon nationwide and offers a prize money of $350,000 to winners. Pretty handsome amount… I must say!
With six categories in its league – Full Marathon, Half Marathon, Dream Run, Senior Citizens’ Run, Champions with Disability Event and DHL Corporate Champions, the racing event is ringed in by some famous legendary actors, big shots and sports stars. Needless to say but the Standard Chartered Mumbai Marathon receives a massive participation and support of people round the globe.
Airtel Delhi Half Marathon (ADHM)
Recognized as ‘the second biggest marathon’ in the city, the Airtel Delhi Half Marathon has always received huge applause by hoards of people. Despite being a half marathon, this event is attended by international and national runners.
According to a report, about 34,000 runners participated in the 2015 marathon. Encompassing the Half Marathon, the DHL Corporate Champions, the Great Delhi Run (7 km), the Senior Citizens’ Run (4.3 km), and the Champions with Disability (3.5 km), this marathon also sees some biggies running for a cause. These biggies include honored sportspersons and bollywood celebrities.
Chennai Trail Marathon
Celebrated as one of the most charming and interesting racing events across the country, the Chennai Trail Marathon is quite a unique experience.
Rather than taking on a regular racing track or road, you get to dash through challenging trail run on dirt tracks amid beautiful natural surroundings.
Nicely lined up the famous Chennai Trekking Club, the marathon shows up in three levels – Full Marathon, Half Marathon and Ultra Marathon (50K). Showcasing a trail running through a panoramic lake, lush-green forests and gushing canyons, the marathon is more of a nature’s retreat than a dull & boring marathon amidst the city’s traffic.
Airtel Hyderabad Marathon
Rapidly growing as of the favorite running towns of India, Hyderabad is host to one of the biggest racing event. Yes, you got me right… The Airtel Hyderabad Marathon.
Often referred to as ‘the feature event of the city’, this marathon stands out from others because of the city’s difficult hill-terrain, something that adds to the thrill and excitement of a long-distance race 🙂
Boasting of three leagues – Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K Run and 5K Run, this marathon is meticulously planned by a group of racers who fully comprehend the requirements of the marathoners’ community. In a nutshell, running in the popular Airtel Hyderabad Marathon will make you feel proud.
Pune International Marathon
Organized annually, The Pune International Marathon takes place mostly in December. The 30th Pune Marathon that took place in 2015 was frequented by some renowned global and domestic runners.
Encompassing as much as four races – Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K Run and AIDS Charity Run, this universally acclaimed marathon has been a significant fund raiser for HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention in the area. Celebrated as one of the greatest running events in India, the Pune International Marathon takes marathoners around the city.
Tags: ADHM, Airtel Delhi Half Marathon, Airtel Hyderabad Marathon, Chennai Trail Marathon, Full Marathon, Half Marathon, India, Marathons, Pune International Marathon, Run, Runner, Running, SCMM, Standard Chartered Mumbai Marathon
