Chandigarh International Marathon 2026 Marks Historic Sports Milestone
In a significant achievement for the city's sports calendar, the UT sports department successfully organized the first-ever Chandigarh International Marathon 2026 on Sunday. This landmark event attracted nearly 3,500 runners from across India and various international countries, establishing it as one of the largest competitive running spectacles held in the City Beautiful.
Flag-Off and Participation by Dignitaries
Punjab governor and UT administrator Gulab Chand Kataria, accompanied by his wife Anita Kataria, officially flagged off the marathon from the Chandigarh Club in Sector 1. Demonstrating their commitment to fitness, the couple also actively participated in the 5km run. Officials highlighted that this inaugural edition aimed to champion fitness, unity, and a healthy lifestyle among residents and visitors alike.
Race Categories and Participant Breakdown
The marathon featured four distinct race categories to cater to runners of all skill levels:
- 42 km Full Marathon: 323 participants
- 21 km Half Marathon: 740 participants
- 10km Run: 1,270 participants
- 5km Run: 1,168 participants
Adding to the event's global appeal, a total of 38 international athletes from eight different countries joined the competition. Furthermore, the marathon proudly included 21 specially abled participants, emphasizing inclusivity and diversity in sports.
Prize Distribution and Administrator's Address
During the prize distribution ceremony, Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria lauded the dedicated efforts of the sports department and all stakeholders involved. He underscored the critical role of sports in nurturing discipline, enhancing physical fitness, and fostering a strong sense of community among individuals.
Winners Across Marathon Categories
The competition showcased exceptional athletic prowess, with top performers recognized in each category:
Full Marathon Results
Women's Category:
- Meskerem Tesfaye Fikadu (Ethiopia)
- Ruth Chelangat Wakabu (Kenya)
- Rita Jelagat (Kenya)
Men's Category:
- Olbana Negasa Yadate (Ethiopia)
- Aggrey Kiprotich Rono (Kenya)
- Sylas Chebii (Ethiopia)
Half Marathon Results
Women's Category:
- Tsehay Desalegn (Ethiopia)
- Iveen Chepkemoi (Kenya)
- Munni Devi (India)
Men's Category:
- Harmanjot Singh (India) – Asian Cross Country Championship silver medallist from Tarn Taran
- Panchanan Bera (Kenya)
- Kemboi Kevin Kiprono (Kenya)
10km Run Results
Women's Category:
- Soniya (India)
- Senayit Ayele (Kenya)
- Anjali (India)
Men's Category:
- Sahil Kapoor (India)
- Gaurav Kasana (India)
- Sawan (India)
Prize Money Structure
The event offered substantial rewards to top finishers, incentivizing competitive spirit:
- Full Marathon (42 km): 1st – Rs 7,00,000, 2nd – Rs 5,00,000, 3rd – Rs 3,00,000
- Half Marathon (21 km): 1st – Rs 4,00,000, 2nd – Rs 3,00,000, 3rd – Rs 1,50,000
- 10km Run: 1st – Rs 2,00,000, 2nd – Rs 1,50,000, 3rd – Rs 1,00,000
Inspiring Stories of Resilience and Determination
The marathon was not just about competition but also celebrated human spirit and perseverance. Among the standout participants were Kumaresan and Vivekha, a newly-married couple from the Chandigarh Spinal Rehab Centre. Both wheelchair users, they demonstrated that physical limitations could not hinder their passion for sports. Kumaresan, a javelin throw player, and Vivekha, a club throw athlete, participated in the marathon on wheelchairs, with Vivekha completing her first-ever marathon encouraged by her husband's decade-long experience. They were part of a group of 10 participants from the centre who competed in wheelchairs, receiving enthusiastic cheers and admiration from the crowd.
Another inspiring tale came from Kiran Kurwade, who ran in the marathon just five years after undergoing open heart surgery in 2021. After doctors discovered one artery 80% blocked and another 30% blocked, Kurwade, a director of strategic initiatives at a private university and motivational speaker, embraced a disciplined lifestyle incorporating yoga, meditation, and regular training. This marked his second marathon post-surgery, proving that age and health challenges are no barrier to fitness enthusiasm.
With inputs from Manish Choure and Sukhmani Kooner, the Chandigarh International Marathon 2026 has set a high benchmark for future editions, blending competitive excellence with heartfelt stories of triumph.
