MUMBAI: The annual IDBI Federal Life Insurance Half Marathon will kick off for its third edition from Jio Gardens, Bandra Kurla Complex, Mumbai on 30 September. The marathon, organized by NEB Sports, has been certified by AIMS (Association of International Marathons and Distance Races) in association with AFI (Athletics Federation of India).
More than 16,000 runners have registered for the event, across three race categories namely, 5k Fun Run, 10k Time Run and the 21k Half Marathon. Brand Ambassador for IDBI Federal Life Insurance and face of the event since its very inception, Sachin Tendulkar will flag off all three races much to the excitement of the runners.
This year saw an increase in entries in all three categories, with 5000 runners committing to the half marathon, 7000 runners undertaking the Timed 10K run and 4000 signing up for the 5K Fun Run. Additionally, 10 female and 3 male pacers will be assisting the runners in achieving their timing goals.
Like last year, the official NGO partner for the marathon is Apnalaya, a non-profit organization that works with the most marginalized people in the highly under-served slums of Mumbai. To motivate the runners to do their bit for the underprivileged, IDBI Federal Life Insurance Mumbai Half Marathon has launched limited charity bibs where Rs. 1000 from every registration will be donated to Apnalaya.
Sachin Tendulkar commented on the event.
“During the last two editions, it has been amazing to witness the infectious energy of race day morning, with runners from different age groups taking up the commitment to stay fit. The increase in numbers this year is a positive sign that more people in Mumbai are focusing on a healthy lifestyle. As we count down to the race day, I encourage all the runners to prepare well and give their best effort. #KeepMoving Mumbai”
Karthik Raman, CMO of IDBI Federal Life Insurance said: “We are confident that the third edition of the IDBI Federal Life Insurance Mumbai Half Marathon will be even better than the previous editions as the number of runners has increased across all the three categories and more people will be seen on the track this year. Through our marathons, we aim to get India to #KeepMoving and inspire people to lead an active life. The increase in registration numbers shows that we are on track with our goal!”
