MANGALURU: The city came alive on Sunday morning as over 3,700 participants joined the NMPA Golden Jubilee 10K Run, marking the 50th anniversary of the New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA). The event brought together runners of all ages and abilities, from elite athletes to first-timers, college students to families, port employees and contract staff to pensioners, reflecting a spirit of inclusivity and community celebration.

Race categories and festive atmosphere

The marathon featured three categories—10K, 5K, and 3K—designed to offer a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants. The streets of Mangaluru, particularly around Panambur, were lined with cheer zones, live music bands, and cultural showcases, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere that extended beyond the finish line.

Organisers ensured comprehensive arrangements for runners, including medical support, refreshment points, and water stations along the route.

Dignitaries at the event

The marathon was flagged off by key dignitaries, including AV Ramana, chairman of NMPA; Sudheer Kumar Reddy CH, commissioner of police, Mangaluru; S Shanthi, deputy chairperson of NMPA; P Vinitha Sekhar, customs commissioner, Mangaluru; N Anandha Kumar, executive director, MRPL; Padmanabhachar K, CVO-NMPA; and Fr Praveen Martis, SJ, vice-chancellor, St Aloysius.

AV Ramana highlighted the port’s achievements, noting a record handling of 46 million metric tons and an expected profit of Rs 550 crore this year. He emphasised the port’s role as the ‘Maritime Gateway to Karnataka,’ contributing nearly Rs 10,000 crore to the state’s economy.

Community participation

The run saw enthusiastic involvement from institutions such as St Aloysius (Deemed to be University) and Srinivas University, as well as corporates, port pensioners, stakeholders, port users, NMPA-aided school children, and civic groups.

Every participant received a commemorative medal and T-shirt, recognising their contribution to this milestone occasion. Special recognition was given to children and senior citizens for their enthusiasm and commitment to the marathon.

Successful execution

Organised by Sports Reconnect with the support of partners, volunteers, and medical teams, the NMPA Golden Jubilee 10K Run successfully placed Mangaluru on the national running map and marked the beginning of the port authority’s Golden Jubilee celebrations, scheduled to continue from September.