AHMEDABAD: The 8th edition of the Adani Ahmedabad Marathon, a prestigious running event, will be flagged off by chess grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa on November 24.

The marathon will start and end at the Sabarmati Riverfront Sports Park, managed and operated by Adani Sportsline. Praggnanandhaa will be joined by athlete-actor Saiyami Kher at the event.

The participating categories include the full marathon (42.195 km), half marathon (21.097 km), 10 km run, and 5 km run. The Adani Ahmedabad Marathon, accredited by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races, underwent a course change for the first time in 2023, and this will be the second edition on a picturesque track along iconic locations like Gandhi Ashram, Atal Bridge, and Ellis Bridge. Last year’s event saw over 22, 000 participants.

As part of the “#Run4OurSoldiers” campaign, the marathon honours India’s armed forces, with a significant portion of the proceeds dedicated to their welfare. Last year, over 2, 500 defense personnel took part in the event, highlighting a strong connection between the sporting community and the armed forces.

“Being the only marathon dedicated to soldiers through the #Run4OurSoldiers initiative has made the Ahmedabad Marathon truly special. Since its inception in 2017, it has quickly become one of India’s most awaited marathon races, ” said Pranav Adani, Director, Adani Enterprises.

“I’m excited to be part of the Adani Ahmedabad Marathon. Like in chess, a marathon requires strategy, determination, and the will to push beyond your limits. This event not only promotes fitness but also supports our armed forces, making it even more meaningful, ” said R Praggnanandhaa, ranked 12th in the world by the International Chess Federation.

“The Adani Ahmedabad Marathon has become one of the most talked-about events on the running calendar, and it’s a great honor to be associated with it, ” said Saiyami Kher, the first Indian actor to finish the Ironman 70.3 triathlon in Germany in September 2024.