Mangaluru: The countdown has begun for the Niveus Mangalore Marathon 2025, scheduled for Sunday, November 9, as thousands of runners — from first-timers to seasoned athletes — gear up to hit the streets of Mangaluru for one of coastal India’s most awaited sporting events.

A global sporting celebration with a local soul

Organised by the Mangalore Runners Club (MRC), the marathon — now in its fourth edition — continues to grow in scale and prestige, with this year’s participation exceeding 6,000 runners from across India and abroad.

Participants from South Africa, Singapore, Denmark, and Nigeria will join runners representing multiple Indian states, reflecting the marathon’s expanding international appeal. With competitors ranging in age from 8 to 80, the event also boasts a remarkable turnout from women and girl runners, symbolising inclusivity and empowerment.

Beyond the race, the marathon champions community welfare, supporting Riya Foundation as its charity partner — an organisation dedicated to the care and empowerment of individuals with developmental disabilities.

Marathon route and race details

Ms Mehwish Hussain, Race Director, announced that the race will start from Mangala Stadium and follow a scenic route to Tannirbhavi Beach and back, showcasing the city’s coastline and spirit.
Race categories include the Full Marathon (42.2 km), 20 Miler (32 km), Half Marathon (21.1 km), 10 km Run, 5 km Run, 2 km Gammath Run, and the Yenepoya World School Student Run (10 km / 5 km).

A free ferry ride from Tannirbhavi Boat Jetty back to Mangala Stadium will be available for 10K participants.
With a prize purse of ₹12 lakhs, winners will be rewarded across multiple race and age categories.

Safety remains a top priority, with KMC Hospital providing medical support, alongside hydration points and volunteers stationed throughout the route. Participants will also enjoy a fun warm-up session, guidance from experienced pacers, and a finisher’s medal inspired by Mangalore’s iconic cultural symbol — Pili Nalike.

Expo and community engagement

Ahead of the race, the three-day Niveus Mangalore Marathon Expo, powered by Vertex Managed Workspace, is being held from November 6–8 at Ashoka Business Centre, Bejai.
The Expo features a vibrant showcase of sportswear, nutrition, fitness technology, and wellness brands, creating a lively pre-race environment for runners and visitors alike.

Ms Hussain expressed her gratitude to all citizens, urging them to line the streets and cheer for the runners:

“With the continued support of our sponsors, volunteers, and the people of Mangalore, the Niveus Mangalore Marathon 2025 will be a celebration of health, harmony, and community spirit.”

Voices from the press meet

At a press conference, Mr Gurudatta Shenoy, Managing Director of Vertex, highlighted Mangalore’s growing reputation as an emerging IT and wellness hub, noting how fitness initiatives like the marathon add to the city’s evolving identity.

Mr Anthony Joseph, Principal of Yenepoya World School, emphasised the importance of encouraging students to take up fitness early to build discipline and lifelong wellness habits.

Mr Ajay Prabhu, Director of Niveus Solutions, reaffirmed the organisation’s ongoing commitment to the marathon’s mission of promoting fitness and unity, noting that Niveus has been a proud partner for four consecutive years.

Sponsors and partners

Title Sponsor: Niveus Solutions
Sponsors: S.L. Shet Jewellers & Diamond House, ONGC MRPL, Aruna Masalas, Vertex Managed Workspace, Yenepoya World School, Kasharp Fitness, Grahini Masalas, and Hangyo Ice Cream.
Partners: KMC Hospital, TLC Art Café, JoosBotal, and Fast &Up.
Supported By: Mangaluru City Police, Mangalore City Corporation, Dakshina Kannada District Administration, Karnataka Athletics Association, Coastal Development Authority, and the Department of Tourism (Government of Karnataka).

The event is backed by the Kanara Chamber of Commerce & Industry and Coastal Karnataka Tourism Development Council, further cementing Mangaluru’s position as a destination for sports tourism.

Members present at the Press Conference:

  • Ms. Mehwish Hussain, Race Director, Niveus Mangalore Marathon 2025
  • Mr. Joel Rebello, President, Mangalore Runners Club
  • Mr. Ajay Prabhu & Ms. Luvlyn Dsouza, Directors, Niveus Solutions
  • Mr. Gurudatta Shenoy, Managing Director, Vertex
  • Mr. Anthony Joseph, Principal, Yenepoya World School
  • Members of the Organizing Committee, Mangalore Runners Club