Delhi Runs The Show With Great Aplomb

New Delhi: In the early hours of Sunday, 36,320 participants of Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon (VDHM) gathered at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, representing a diverse array of ages, abilities and backgrounds.
This collective effort showcased the city's vibrant spirit, as runners—from seasoned athletes to enthusiastic amateurs—filled the streets, transforming the event into a lively celebration of fitness and community.
"I'm a first-timer for any kind of marathon. So, I chose The Great Delhi Run, which is just 4.5km. I am really enjoying the atmosphere and the spirit of the event. I'll definitely be back next year, hopefully for a longer distance," said 26-year-old Andrew.
Apart from many first-timers, several international athletes, including Olympic and World champions, and seasoned long-distance and cross-country runners, were also among those who filled the streets of the capital.
The marathon not only emphasised a commitment to well-being but also raised awareness for various charitable causes, embodying Delhi's essence of unity and social responsibility. Heavy security was deployed around the stadium to ensure a smooth and safe event.
"Running is a crucial part of both my sport and my life. The energy in Delhi today was remarkable. It makes me proud to see a fundamental shift in the way running is viewed and normalised as culture in this country, and this is just the beginning of a bigger sporting phenomenon waiting to take over," said Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, captain of Indian men's football team.
This year's event showcased diversity and inclusivity through categories like The Great Delhi Run, Champions with Disability and Senior Citizens Run. Additionally, over a thousand participants took part in The Great Delhi Run to promote various special causes, expressing their independent spirits through unique outfits
"This event attracts a large audience, making it a vital platform for promoting meaningful causes. I am raising awareness about the significance of organ donation and encouraging people to step forward and help others," said Vanshika Arora (15), who sported an eye-catching outfit featuring a powerful message. Many women were also seen running in sarees, while a few men were in blazers.
The Great Delhi Run, which saw the maximum participation of 13,327, was the last to start at 9am, following Half Marathon Open & Police Cup at 5am, Champions with Disability & Senior Citizen Run at 7am and Open 10K at 7.30am. The participants cheered one another on, shouting slogans as they kicked off their run, energised by the electrifying music playing in the background.
"I ran the half marathon early in the morning and now I am back for The Great Delhi Run as my other family members were participating in this one," said Raj Kumar Yadav, who came with 11 members of his family, youngest at 4.5 years of age and the oldest at 72.
About 100 metres from the finishing line, 70-year-old Jawahar Naagar from Model Town took to the platform where everyone danced to the beats of dhol in celebration. "This is my first time, but my son has done it before many times. So, I was inspired," he said.
Several notable figures attended the 19th edition of the event and participated in the flag-off for various categories. Among them were Raksha Nikhil Khadse, minister of state for youth affairs & sports; Kiren Rijiju, minister of parliamentary affairs; Valarie Allman, two-time Olympic discus throw champion and the International Elite Ambassador for VDHM; former deputy CM Manish Sisodia; and actor Gul Panag. Also present was Priya Agarwal Hebbar, non-executive director of Vedanta and chairperson of Hindustan Zinc Ltd. The also races saw many senior defence officers, including air chief marshal A P Singh.
There were 10 medical stations, 12 ambulances, 10 medics on bikes and 260- 275 medical staff, including doctors, nurses, physiotherapists and support staff, on the route. "The first 5km is difficult. After that, as the distance decreases, it gets better. There are a lot of hydration stalls and medical facilities on the way, so that helped," said 44-year-old Rohit, who was on his way to take the medal after clocking 87 minutes in Open 10K.
The smooth conduct of the event was facilitated with the support of over 200 dedicated volunteers, Delhi Police officials and 400 healthcare personnel spread across medical stations and base camps.
In all, 12,006 people participated in the Half Marathon, 9,864 in the Open 10K Run, 13,327 in the Great Delhi Run, 865 in the Senior Citizens' Run, 258 in Champions with Disability and 194 teams in the Police Cup run.