Vadodara: Vadodara is set to hit the streets this Sunday as over one lakh runners gear up for the MG Vadodara International Marathon, turning the city into a celebration of fitness, community spirit and sustainability. Marathon authorities said 1.11 lakh participants have registered for the annual event, which draws runners from across the country and abroad.“Our motto is sports, cleanliness, service and sustainability, and we want to create awareness about sustainable development among one lakh children in Vadodara’s schools,” said Tejal Amin, chairperson, Vadodara Marathon.The race will be held in the standard categories of 42km, 21km and 10km. A separate Heritage Fun Run and Divyang Paralympic Run have also been organized. “This time, over 150 LGBTQIA community members will participate in the marathon in the Gazra Run. We want to promote a healthy lifestyle among community members. From next year, I will try to invite community members from across the country,” said Radhikaraje Gaekwad, a member of the Gaekwad royal family.More than 340 runners will participate in the full marathon, 1,975 in the half marathon and 9,000 in the 10km category. This year, a Jawan Run has been introduced, featuring participation from Indian Army personnel, police, emergency services and Indian Air Force staff.Deputy chief minister Harsh Sanghavi will flag off the marathon from Navlakhi Compound on Sunday morning. “Runners will get assistance and facilities along the race route, along with medical booths and recovery zones,” said Sameer Khera, co-chairperson of Vadodara Marathon.
