Niveus Mangalore Marathon 2024 draws over 5,000 runners, celebrates fitness and community

In a grand celebration of fitness, community, and determination, the Niveus Mangalore Marathon 2024 took place on November 10, painting the streets of Mangalore blue as more than 5,000 runners from diverse backgrounds and regions participated in Karnataka’s highly anticipated marathon event. From seasoned marathoners to first-time runners, participants gathered early at Mangala Stadium, where the atmosphere buzzed with energy and excitement.

A Memorable Start and Celebratory Atmosphere

The event began with a warm-up led by professionals from fitness partner Kasharp Fitness, energizing participants with exercises set to the rhythmic beats of traditional chende drums. At 4:15 AM, the marathon officially kicked off as the Full Marathon was flagged off by Shashir Shetty, Chief Growth Officer at Niveus Solutions, and Najma Farooqi, ACP Traffic, Mangalore. This was soon followed by the 20-miler, flagged off by event ambassador Satish Gujaran, and the Half Marathon, launched by Suyog Shetty, CEO of Niveus Solutions.

The event continued with the 10K race, which drew over 1,200 participants and was inaugurated by key community figures including Mangalore Mayor Manoj Kumar. The 5K race, featuring a special student run sponsored by CFAL, was flagged off by representatives from various local and international organizations, further showcasing the strong community support.

High Participation and International Presence

With runners from across the state and international participants from Denmark, Ethiopia, Kenya, Spain, and Japan, the third edition of the Niveus Mangalore Marathon brought global enthusiasm to Mangalore. Around 110 runners competed in the Full Marathon, 150 took on the 20-miler, 600 joined the Half Marathon, 1,200 completed the 10K, 2,000 participated in the 5K, and over 1,000 participated in the 2K Gammath Run, highlighting the growing interest in fitness and long-distance running.

Scenic Routes and Thoughtful Amenities

The marathon route provided runners with scenic views of Mangalore’s landscapes, from bustling cityscapes to tranquil coastal roads. The 10K runners even enjoyed a unique ferry ride back to the city from Tannirbhavi, creating an adventurous experience within the race. Along the routes, hydration and nutrition stations ensured participants stayed energized, while medical teams from KMC Hospital and the local police maintained safety and traffic control, making it a smooth experience for all.

Celebrating Achievements and Community

The Niveus Mangalore Marathon honored each finisher with a commemorative medal featuring traditional Kambala art, symbolizing resilience, strength, and the cultural pride of Karnataka. At the finish line, runners celebrated their accomplishments with a hearty breakfast, rounding off the event with warmth and camaraderie.

In the open men’s Full Marathon category, Sachin from Udupi claimed first place with a time of 2:43:55, while Bijoya Barman from Assam led the open women’s category, finishing at 3:38:08. Final results will be posted on the event website following verification.

A Community Effort and Vision for Fitness

The marathon’s success was made possible by the collaborative efforts of Mangalore Runners Club, under the leadership of Race Director Abhilash Dominic, along with support from volunteers, sponsors, the police, and city officials. Police Commissioner Anupam Agarwal praised the event, noting its role in promoting early morning activities that unite the community around health and fitness.

The Niveus Mangalore Marathon 2024 left a lasting impact, bringing together a diverse community to celebrate fitness, cultural pride, and the power of endurance.