Vadodara: On Sunday morning, the streets of Vadodara thrummed with energy as thousands of runners took to the roads for the 13th Vadodara International Marathon. From the steady pace of full and half-marathon participants to the spirited strides of the Divyang Run and the lively groups from the LGBTQIA community, the city celebrated endurance, community, and sheer determination.Music and cheer accompanied every step. Marathon organizers set up live musical performances along the route, while volunteers offered water and fruit to keep the runners going. Vadodara Marathon chairperson Tejal Amin said this year saw over 17,000 participants across the various timed-run categories.Adding a royal touch, Radhikaraje Gaekwad ran alongside members of the LGBTQIA community, showing that the marathon was truly inclusive. The Divyang Run saw around 1,500 participants. Meanwhile, city police commissioner Narsimha Komar administered a pledge to remain drug-free to the runners at Navlakhi Ground, reinforcing the event’s commitment to health and social responsibility.Top officials, including district collector Anil Dhamelia, municipal commissioner Arun Mahesh Babu, and superintendent of police (rural) Sushil Agrawal, joined the marathon, lending further momentum to the citywide celebration. As the runners crossed the finish line, the post-race festivities came alive with DJ Yezad spinning beats.“It’s wonderful to see thousands of Barodians participating in a race that truly embodies the spirit of the city,” Amin said.
