Hyderabad Gears up for NMDC Mega Marathon

Hyderabad: The city is gearing up for the 14th edition of the NMDC Hyderabad Marathon, India’s second-largest such event, scheduled to be held on August 23 and 24. This year’s event has recorded over 28,000 registrations, the highest ever, with 44 per cent of the runners coming from outside Hyderabad.

The Hyderabad Runners Society said event would begin with the 5K Fun Run on August 23 at 7 am from Hitex Grounds. On August 24, the Marathon will start at 4.30 am and the Half Marathon at 5.30 am, both from People’s Plaza, Necklace Road. The 10K Run will begin at 7 am from Hitex. All race categories will end at the Gachibowli Stadium.

This year’s marathon will feature elite international athletes, a total prize purse of Rs.45 lakh.

Race director Rajesh Vetcha said, “The 14th edition is not just bigger in numbers but deeper in impact. With over 28,000 participants and a strong focus on sustainability and charity, we are taking the Hyderabad Marathon to global standards.”

Sanjeev Sahi, executive director, production and coordination, NMDC Ltd., said, “The NMDC Hyderabad Marathon is more than a race. It’s a celebration of community, fitness and shared purpose. We are proud to support this movement for the fourth year, not just as sponsors but as partners in nation-building.”

Olympian and two-time World Boxing champion Nikhat Zareen said the marathon was getting better in terms of participation every year. She said it inspires people to lead an active lifestyle.

Arun Kumar Kaliappan, president of the Hyderabad Runners Society, said registrations had to be closed well in advance to give participants sufficient time to train and prepare for the final race on August 24.