Over 3,500 runners, including 38 international athletes, are set to take part, making it one of the region's major running events.

Chandigarh to Host First International Marathon on March 1; 3,500 Runners to Participate

The UT Administration is fully prepared to host the first Chandigarh International Marathon on March 1. The event is organised by the Sports Department and will be flagged off by Punjab Governor and UT Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria.

Over 3,500 runners, including 38 international athletes, are set to take part, making it one of the region’s major running events. The marathon will include four categories: full marathon (42.195 km), half marathon, 10 km timed run and 5 km run. The full marathon, with a six-hour time limit, will start from Chandigarh Club and pass through High Court Chowk, Rock Garden, Sukhna Lake, Lake Club, Matka Chowk, Transport Lights, Rose Garden Road, PGI Gate No. 3, Leisure Valley and CM House Chowk before finishing at the starting point. The half marathon will follow the same route for one round.

The 10 km timed run will also begin at Chandigarh Club, covering the stretch up to Matka Chowk and then moving towards the Air Force Museum, Rose Garden and Government Museum before ending at the club. The 5-km run will take place along the Sukhna Path stretch.

Winners in competitive categories will be decided based on timing. The total prize pool exceeds Rs 1 crore. Awards will be given across age groups from 18 years to 50+ years, with 138 winners overall. Participants in the 5-km run will receive medals and certificates.

Kataria said the marathon would be a historic moment for Punjab and Chandigarh, as the city is hosting an international marathon for the first time. He added that the event will help establish Chandigarh on the global sporting stage, with leading athletes from India and abroad taking part.

Source: The Tribune