New Chandigarh Hosts Maiden Marathon with 1,000 Participants
Approximately 1,000 runners gathered for the inaugural New Chandigarh Marathon recently, turning the city's most picturesque and traffic-free roads into a lively celebration of lifestyle, wellness, and Punjabi spirit. This landmark event marked the first marathon in the area, showcasing a unique blend of fitness and cultural festivities.
Punjab Police Ensures Smooth Traffic-Free Route
Organized as the maiden New Chandigarh Marathon, the event received full support from the Punjab Police, who meticulously managed the roads to keep the marathon route completely free of vehicular traffic. This allowed participants to run safely through one of the most scenic routes in New Chandigarh, offering a rare opportunity to experience the city's natural beauty in its purest form.
A Lifestyle Experience Beyond Just a Race
The marathon was designed as more than just a sporting event; it was a comprehensive lifestyle experience. With a specially curated Punjabi village theme, vibrant cultural décor, and international kite flying activities that added color to the skyline, the event truly embodied its theme – Run for Punjab. Gurinder Bhatti, speaking on the occasion, emphasized, "The run reflects our philosophy, bringing together wellness, culture, community, and premium living."
From professional athletes to fitness enthusiasts and families, the event attracted a diverse group, highlighting a growing culture of mindful living and community engagement. The celebratory atmosphere was further enhanced by international kite flying, which captivated both participants and spectators, reinforcing the marathon's positioning as a lifestyle festival rather than merely a race.
Official Support and Race Categories
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann had earlier unveiled the official jersey of the marathon, underscoring the importance of sports and healthy lifestyles in the state's vision. The marathon was flagged off from a local school and featured multiple race categories to cater to different fitness levels:
- Full marathon
- Half marathon
- 10 km run
- 5 km run
This inclusive approach ensured that runners of all abilities could participate, making the event a true community affair. The marathon successfully blended fitness, culture, luxury, and community spirit, setting a new standard for wellness events in the region.
