In an exciting development, the Pune City Marathon, organized by The Poona Club Ltd in association with HQ Southern Command, is set to witness the participation of 12,000 enthusiastic runners on March 3, 2024. This massive event marks a significant milestone for the club, with the promise of evolving into an annual tradition, according to President Sunil Handa.
Jehangir Dorabjee from Dorabjee Charitable Trust expressed his overwhelming joy at executing this marathon for the first time, emphasizing the fantastic support received from various stakeholders, including government departments. The Vice President Gaurav Gadhoke highlighted the marathon’s potential to unite everyone for noble causes and contribute to societal well-being.
Race Director Mr. Shailesh Ranka shared the marathon’s broader purpose, stating that it aims to support the cause of a Green and Inclusive Pune. He envisioned the Pune City Marathon not merely as a running event but as a transformative movement that brings the community together for a healthier, greener, and more compassionate city.
Key Initiatives of Pune City Marathon:
- You Run We Plant – Tree Plantation: Integrating environmental consciousness, the marathon introduces a tree plantation initiative where each participant contributes to greening Pune.
- Promoting Education and Welfare of Children of Sex Workers: A commitment to social causes includes supporting the education and welfare of children from marginalized backgrounds.
- Empowering the Visually and Hearing Impaired: The marathon aims to empower individuals with visual and hearing impairments, fostering inclusivity.
- Providing Support to Old Age Homes: Recognizing the needs of the elderly, the marathon seeks to provide support to old age homes, promoting a caring society.
Mr. Shailesh Ranka highlighted these noble initiatives, expressing the organizers’ determination to achieve positive social impact alongside the physical challenges of the marathon.
The event, executed by Dorabjee Charitable Trust, enjoys support from various organizations, including Income Tax Sports & Recreation Club Pune, Pune Police Maharashtra, Indian Air Force, and the Department of Goods and Services Tax, Government of Maharashtra.
The marathon will feature races in 3km, 5km, 10km, and 21km categories, with the Half Marathon covering a single loop. The races will commence at 5:30 AM from The Poona Club Ltd Cricket Ground and conclude at the same location.
Every participant is set to receive a Dry Fit T-shirt, Finisher medal, Sling bag with exciting goodies, Timing chip for 10km & 21km, Breakfast, Hydration & Route support, and E-certificates.
