Delhi Gears Up for 19th Half Marathon with Global Participation

The 19th edition of the Delhi Half Marathon is set for October 2024, uniting athletes and amateurs from around the world. Registrations open Friday for various race categories. The event, featuring a prize pool of USD 260,000, aims to continue its legacy of inclusivity and philanthropy.

The 19th edition of the Delhi Half Marathon 2024 is set to kick off in October, drawing participants from across the globe to the national capital. 'Inspiring to go beyond convention and what's possible, each participant will add a unique color to the celebrations on the third Sunday of October - AaRangDeDilli,' said a press release by Delhi Half Marathon.

Procam International announced Thursday that registrations for the event, scheduled for October 20, will commence Friday. Both physical and virtual race entries will be accepted. This World Athletics Gold Label Race, boasting a prize pool of USD 260,000, will feature elite athletes and amateurs worldwide.

Sanjay Arora, Commissioner of Delhi Police, highlighted the community spirit of the Marathon. 'It's an event that unites all of Delhi. We compete against ourselves, so kudos to Procam International, Vedanta, and all stakeholders.' Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Non-Executive Director of Vedanta Ltd, announced this year's #RunforZeroHunger initiative, aiming to donate 5 million meals for every kilometer run.

Asian Games 2022 Silver medalist Ancy Josan Edappilly endorsed the Marathon. 'Proud to be part of this event as a PUMA athlete, it's significant for aspiring Indian long-distance runners,' said the U-21 Women's Long Jump record holder. 'With another Olympics around the corner, this event inspires more runners to make their presence felt.'

The Half Marathon and Police Cup will begin at 5:00 am, followed by Elite races at 7:00 am. The Champions with Disability & Senior Citizen Run starts at 7:05 am, and the Great Delhi Run at 9:00 am. All races will start and end at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, except for the Open 10K starting from Sansad Marg at 7:50 am.

Registrations for all race categories will begin Friday, July 19th, 2024, at 7:00 am, closing on September 20, 2024, or when all spots are filled. A limited number of spots are reserved for women who can't provide a timing certificate or don't meet timing requirements, encouraging broader participation.

'We are thrilled to announce registrations for the Delhi Half Marathon, a 19-year legacy of athletic excellence and community engagement,' said Vivek Singh, Joint MD, Procam International. 'With stakeholder support, we aim to scale new heights this year.' (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)