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Pune, 6th October 2024: More than 10,000 runners have signed up for the highly anticipated ‘Apla Pune Marathon Season-4,’ organized by Punit Balan Group (PBG). The marathon has rapidly become one of Pune’s premier fitness events, drawing a massive turnout from across the city.
Co-hosted by the Pune Police, Pimpri-Chinchwad Police, Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporations, PMPML, and the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), the event is focused on promoting fitness and a drug-free lifestyle among Pune’s youth.
Punit Balan, president of Punit Balan Group and the chief sponsor of the marathon, expressed his excitement about the event:
“Supporting the ‘Apla Pune Marathon’ is not just about promoting a race, but about fostering a culture of health and fitness among Pune’s youth. The enthusiastic response from participants has been incredible, and we are committed to providing the best possible experience for all runners.”
The theme of this year’s marathon is “Say No to Drugs, Yes to Run.” The event aims to inspire young people to embrace a healthy lifestyle, emphasizing the role of sports and fitness in combating drug addiction. Organizers are hopeful that the marathon will contribute to a positive shift in attitudes toward fitness and healthy living.
Scheduled for Sunday, October 20, 2024, the marathon will take place at the Shri Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex. Runners will compete in four categories: the 42-km full marathon, 21-km half marathon, 10-km run, and a 5-km fun run. These categories cater to both seasoned athletes and amateur participants alike.
Participants can collect their marathon bibs at an expo on October 19, from 10 am to 5 pm, also at the Shri Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex. Various activities and programs for the runners and their families will be available throughout the day.
On race day, hydration stations and medical teams will be placed along the route. A team of dedicated volunteers will assist runners throughout the event, with live music and cheer zones providing encouragement. Participants can also capture memories at the special “Finisher Selfie Station.”
In addition to the main races, a 5-km social run has been organized in collaboration with the Loha Foundation and the Rotary Club. This special run is designed to raise awareness about social service and collective efforts for societal betterment. All proceeds from the event will go toward charitable causes, giving each runner an opportunity to contribute to social welfare.
IPS officer Krishna Prakash, known for his dedication to fitness and law enforcement, will serve as the Honorary Race Director. Krishna Prakash is the first Indian civilian to complete both the Ironman Triathlon and the Race Across the West. His presence is expected to motivate participants to challenge themselves and pursue healthier lifestyles.
Recognized by the Athletics Federation of India (AFI), the Apla Pune Marathon is expected to attract top-tier athletes due to its credibility and lucrative prize pool. With Rs 18 lakh worth of prizes up for grabs, the competition promises to be intense.
This year, 125 previous winners of the Apla Pune Marathon will be celebrated for their achievements. These runners have become role models for the marathon community in Pune, inspiring others through their perseverance and commitment to fitness. Local influencers who have promoted running culture in Pune will also be honored during the event.
The Apla Pune Marathon Season-4 promises to be more than just a race—it’s a celebration of health, community, and positive change.
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