The picturesque coastline of Kochi is set to come alive with the spirit of fitness as the Ernakulam District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) gears up to host the third edition of the popular Cherai Beach Marathon. Scheduled for January 18, the event is organized in collaboration with the Cherai Runners Club and aims to spread the crucial message of health and wellness among the public.
Event Categories and Scenic Routes
The marathon will feature three distinct categories to cater to runners of all levels. Participants can choose to challenge themselves in the Half Marathon (21km), the Mini Marathon (10km), or the more relaxed Family Fun Run (5km). A special and heartwarming inclusion this year is a dedicated run for disabled children, ensuring the event is inclusive.
The runs are designed to showcase the natural beauty of the area, connecting four stunning beaches: Cherai, Munambam, Rakteswari, and Kuzhuppily. According to Vinod Divine, Secretary of the Cherai Runners Club, the core mission is to disseminate the importance of physical exercise in combating lifestyle diseases. The event will kick off at 5:00 AM with energizing warm-up and Zumba dance sessions.
Detailed Race Schedule and Support
The flagship Half Marathon will commence at 5:30 AM, starting from Cherai Junction. The route will take runners to Munambam and back, passing Kuzhupilly Beach before returning to the starting point. The 10km Mini Marathon begins at 5:45 AM, following a path from Cherai to Munambam and back. For families and those seeking a leisurely experience, the 5km Family Fun Run starts at 6:30 AM and will proceed towards the scenic Rakteswari Beach.
Organizers have confirmed that hydration support, including water and fruits, will be provided for participants in the Mini Marathon category. Adding prestige to the event, veteran marathoner Justin T X will lead the runners. Justin is a proven champion, having won recent races including the Santa Run Kochi, Goa Marathon, and the SBI Green Marathon in Thiruvananthapuram.
A Boost for Tourism and Community Messages
The marathon is not just a sporting event but a key part of the broader Cherai Tourism Mela, an annual week-long festival designed to boost local tourism. Previous editions of the run successfully highlighted vital social campaigns like 'Fight against Drug Abuse' and 'Clean Beaches'.
Vinod Divine expressed enthusiasm about the public response, noting that registrations are already closed due to high demand. The ambitious long-term goal is to elevate the Cherai Beach Marathon to the stature of major running events like the iconic Mumbai Marathon, putting Kochi firmly on the map for fitness enthusiasts and tourists alike.
