India is set to host its first-ever International Athletic Union’s Ageas Federation Life Insurance 50 km World Championship in Hyderabad on November 5. The event will showcase elite marathon runners from around the world, along with many Indian participants. This championship comes shortly after the successful hosting of the IAU 100km Asia Oceania championship in Bengaluru.
Nadeem Khan, the President of IAU, expressed his pride in bringing the Ultra World Championship to India, stating that the increasing participation in ultra-running in the country motivated them to elevate the sport further. The event is expected to bring about a revolution and tap into an untapped market.
The competition will feature four categories – men and women in individual and team events, as well as a Master’s segment. The race will start and finish at People’s Plaza on Necklace Road. Additionally, the event will include three other runs – a 21.1 half marathon, a 10K run, and a 5K run, organized by NEB Sports. These runs will be flagged off by cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar and badminton coach P. Gopi Chand.
The President of the Athletics Federation of India (AFI), Adille Sumariwalla, expressed his excitement about the championship, as it will provide a platform for Indian runners to compete against international athletes. He believes it is a historic moment for India and expects it to create more excitement around the challenging sport of ultra-running.
Several other dignitaries associated with the event also expressed their hopes and expectations. Achala Kumar, the president of the Rotary Club of Lake District Moinabad, believes that the event will spread awareness about the importance of staying healthy. Race Director Nagaraj Adiga hopes that the 50km run will be the first of many similar events in India.
Overall, the inaugural 50 km World Championship in India is anticipated to be a significant milestone for the country’s marathon running community. With the participation of top athletes from around the world, the event aims to promote ultra-running and create a revolution in the sport within India. The championship not only provides a platform for Indian athletes to compete internationally but also strives to tap into an untapped market and explore the country’s potential in ultra-running.
