Adani Ahmedabad Marathon: Running for Soldiers, Unity, and Fitness
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Synopsis of the Article
- The 8th Adani Ahmedabad Marathon attracted over 20,000 participants.
- It was certified by the Athletics Federation of India for the first time.
- The marathon was flagged off by notable personalities, including Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari, Major General Gaurav Bagga, R Praggnanandhaa, Mithali Raj, and Saiyami Kher.
- The event took place at the Sabarmati Riverfront and passed iconic locations like Gandhi Ashram, Atal Bridge, and Ellis Bridge.
- Divided into Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 10 km, and 5 km categories, it celebrated fitness and honoured the armed forces through the #Run4OurSoldiers campaign.
- The event was eco-friendly, recycling plastic bottles to create park benches.
- Prominent speakers lauded the marathon’s unifying spirit and its tribute to India’s armed forces.
A Day to Remember: Ahmedabad’s Streets Come Alive
Ahmedabad witnessed an extraordinary Sunday as over 20,000 runners turned out for the 8th Adani Ahmedabad Marathon, transforming the city into a lively hub of energy and unity. The event, held annually, is more than just a race; it is a tribute to India’s armed forces under the banner of the #Run4OurSoldiers campaign. This year, the marathon reached new heights with its certification by the Athletics Federation of India, marking a significant milestone in its journey.
A Star-Studded Flag-Off at Sabarmati Riverfront
The marathon was flagged off at the scenic Sabarmati Riverfront by an impressive lineup of dignitaries. Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari AVSM VM, Major General Gaurav Bagga, chess prodigy R Praggnanandhaa, cricket legend Mithali Raj, actor-athlete Saiyami Kher, and Asian Marathon Champion Dr. Sunita Godara graced the occasion. Joining them were Pranav Adani, Managing Director of Agro, Oil & Gas at Adani Group, and Sanjay Adesara, CBO of Adani Sportsline.
The starting point buzzed with excitement as runners of all ages and backgrounds geared up for their respective categories: Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 10 km run, and 5 km run. The national anthem, played by the armed forces band before each race, added a patriotic fervour to the event.
Traversing Ahmedabad’s Iconic Landmarks
This edition of the marathon featured a route that showcased Ahmedabad’s cultural and historical richness. Runners navigated through prominent landmarks like the Gandhi Ashram, Atal Bridge, and Ellis Bridge, enjoying the city’s vibrant atmosphere. The route also symbolised the unifying spirit of the marathon, bringing together people from different walks of life to celebrate fitness and camaraderie.
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Eco-Friendly Initiatives for a Sustainable Future
The Adani Ahmedabad Marathon stood out not only for its scale but also for its commitment to sustainability. Plastic water bottles used during the event were recycled and repurposed into park benches, reflecting the organisers’ dedication to environmental consciousness.
Voices of Inspiration: Celebrating the Spirit of the Marathon
Speaking about the event, Pranav Adani expressed his pride in the marathon’s growing significance. “The Adani Ahmedabad Marathon has become a defining moment in our nation’s sporting calendar,” he said. “It is heartwarming to see thousands come together to celebrate fitness and honour our armed forces.”
Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari shared his personal experience, saying, “This marathon is a unique way to honour our soldiers. My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed the event, and I even ran 10 kilometres myself. The enthusiasm of Ahmedabad was truly inspiring.”
Celebrity Endorsements Highlighting Unity Through Sports
Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa, participating for the first time, praised the event’s unifying energy. “This marathon reminded me of the power of sports to bring people together,” he said. Former cricket captain Mithali Raj echoed similar sentiments, lauding the inclusive nature of the event. Saiyami Kher, who also attended, described the marathon as “a remarkable celebration of determination and camaraderie.”
A Legacy of Fitness and Patriotism
The 8th Adani Ahmedabad Marathon was more than just a sporting event; it was a heartfelt tribute to India’s armed forces. The participants’ energy and enthusiasm underscored the event’s success, making it a memorable chapter in Ahmedabad’s cultural and sporting history.
As the runners crossed the finish line, the message was clear: the Adani Ahmedabad Marathon is not just about the race; it is about honouring our soldiers, promoting fitness, and inspiring unity. With its eco-friendly initiatives and wide-ranging participation, the event exemplifies how sport can positively impact society.
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