Gear Up, Runners! Top Marathons to Conquer in India This Spring & Summer

If you've maintained a consistent running routine on city roads, pavements, or trails, give yourself a well-deserved pat on the back—it's commendable! Now, it may be the perfect time to take your running to the next level and commit yourself to a more significant, rewarding challenge: running events. 

With marathon running becoming increasingly popular in India with every passing year, new races keep emerging. However, the major marathon events that have been on the yearly calendar for years now attract marathoners from around the globe. So, if you are also keen on conquering the top upcoming marathons in Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, and other cities, keep reading and save the dates.

Chennai Marathon: 6th January, 2024

Chennai Marathon is the first big running event in India every year. Nearly 20,000 competitors are expected to participate in the 12th edition of the race this year. It was founded by Chennai Runners, a vibrant running community committed to the sport for over 17 years. 

The running route of this upcoming marathon is set along the scenic and iconic Marina Beach, Elliot Beach, and ECR Beach, giving runners a long, straight stretch of flat roads—perfect for achieving personal bests. 

Lakshmi Sundar, Chennai Runners' president, says, "Charity and Chennai Runners go hand in hand. This year, like last year, we will be raising money to support children with Type 1 Diabetes." So, participating in the Chennai Marathon isn't just about running in your best marathon shoes; it's about running for a meaningful cause! 

Race categories: Full Marathon, Twenty Miler, Half Marathon, 10K Run

Tata Mumbai Marathon: 21st January 2024

When talking about India marathons, the Tata Mumbai Marathon tops the list. Inspired by the thrilling experience of the London Marathon, two brothers, Anil and Vivek, founders of Procam International, launched the race in 2004. Their dream of bringing everyone, irrespective of their religion, race, color, gender, and age, on the same ground, driven by a single motivation of finishing the race, has seen immense success. It has garnered participants from all over India and world countries like Kenya, Ethiopia, USA, UK, Japan, and Germany! 

With about 60,000 participants expected to pound the streets of Mumbai in unison, passing through Flora Fountain, Marine Drive, Bandra-Worli Sea Link, and other notable landmarks, it is the most awaited upcoming marathon in Mumbai.

Race categories: Full Marathon, Half Marathon, Open 10K, Dream Run, Senior Citizens' Run, Champions with Disability, Virtual Run, and Elite Participation

How about you pause for a gear check? Explore the best marathon shoes for women and men! 

Hiranandani Thane Half Marathon: 11th February 2024 

The Hiranandani Group, famous for building enduring townships, launched the initiative #Tomorrowmatters to encourage sustainable lifestyles and contribute to a greener tomorrow. In line with their mission, they started an annual marathon event a few years ago, encouraging runners to spread awareness about protecting Mother Earth. It entered its 10th edition in 2024. 

Race categories: Half Marathon, Dream Run 10K, Fun Run 4K

TCS Bengaluru World 10K: May 2024

Procam International began the 10K running event in the Silicon Valley of India, attracting elite athletes, amateur runners, and fitness enthusiasts from around the world. The race typically starts and finishes at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru. This India marathon route takes runners through various parts of the city, showcasing its landmarks, including Vidhana Soudha, Cubbon Park, M.G. Road, and more. 

Race categories: Open 10K, Majja Run (5K), Senior Citizens Run, Champions with Disability, and Virtual Run

Final words: 7 tips to acing the upcoming marathons

1. Follow your marathon training plan diligently. 
2. Invest in the best marathon running shoes and moisture-wicking clothing.
3. Familiarize yourself with the running route before your race. 
4. Remember to warm up and cool down. 
5. Fuel up and hydrate the right way. 
6. Embrace the marathon running experience wholeheartedly. 
7. Ensure post-race recovery, including hydration, nutrition, and rest.