If you’re passionate about running or a fitness enthusiast, seize the opportunity to participate in Gurugram’s first-ever mega marathon on February 25th, 2024. Deputy Commissioner Nishant Yadav, in a press conference, unveiled this initiative by the Haryana government, with Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar set to inaugurate the event.
Anticipating a massive turnout, the administration expects 25,000 participants. Runners can register under various categories based on their fitness levels, with options including a Full Marathon (42 km), a Half Marathon (21 km), a 10 km Run, and a 5 km Fun Run.
Registration Details: Interested individuals can register at gurugrammarathon.com. Upon registration, participants will receive detailed information, including a bib with an electronic chip for the marathon day.
Objectives of the Marathon: This marathon is not just about running; it aims to engage and activate the voter community in the city. The Deputy Commissioner highlighted that the event seeks to create awareness about health and fitness among the youth, channelling their energy positively. Making Gurgaon a brand to attract other fitness enthusiasts. Additionally, with the general elections approaching, the marathon serves as a means to boost voter awareness in Gurugram, addressing the city’s historically low voting trends.
Event Schedule
Full Marathon: Reporting at 4 am, flagging off at 4.30 am (Participants must be above 18 years).
Half Marathon: Flagging off at 6.30 am (Participants must be above 14 years).
10 km Run: Starts at 7.30 am (Participants cannot be below 12 years).
Fun Run (5 km): Chief Minister flag-off at 8.30 am; all categories end at 10 am.
Cash Prizes and Awards
The Gurugram Marathon announces substantial cash prizes for winners to encourage competitive spirit and reward excellence. The Full Marathon’s top performer secures a noteworthy reward of 1.5 lakhs, followed by one lakh for the second position and an award of 75,000 for the third place. Similar rewarding categories exist for the Half Marathon, reinforcing the marathon’s commitment to recognising and celebrating participants’ achievements. Additionally, special categories, such as the eldest and youngest marathon runners, add a unique touch to the event, making it inclusive and inspiring for all participants. There is a category for people with special needs as well.
Pre-Event Expo: A pre-event expo is scheduled on February 22nd and 23rd at Leisure Valley, offering stalls for sports and fitness. Participants will receive a bag with a T-shirt and bib, including an electronic chip for tracking running time and downloading event pictures.
Arrangements and Support: To ensure a successful run, extensive preparations have been made. Over 300 volunteers, frequent police deployments, and multiple support stations with water, fruits, and energy drinks are in place. Fortis Hospital is the medical partner, contributing trained professionals, first aid kits, and ambulances. Government and private educational institutions are mobilised to encourage maximum participation.
Entertainment Extravaganza: Entertainment capsules and live performances by renowned artists at Leisure Valley will inspire and energise runners. Various artists will perform along the route to infuse motivation among the runners. It’s also a cultural extravaganza of sorts.
Registration Fee and Participation: While a nominal registration fee has been implemented, the Deputy Commissioner emphasised its necessity to maintain the event’s seriousness. Pre-event runs in surrounding satellite towns aim to build momentum.
With over 3500 registrations already received, the inaugural Gurugram Marathon is shaping up to be a remarkable event, attracting participants from diverse groups, companies, and multinationals. Get ready to paint the town red with promotional banners and hoardings as Gurugram gears up for an unforgettable marathon experience!
