Shubhamita Bhattacharjee
GUWAHATI, Sep 10: Guwahati is set to make its mark on the international running circuit with the launch of the Guwahati International Marathon, an ambitious new sporting event aimed at positioning Assam as a major destination for sports, fitness and sports tourism.
The inaugural edition of the marathon will be held on February 7, 2027, with around 12,000 participants from India and abroad expected to take part. The event was formally announced in Guwahati on Wednesday by Assam Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma in the presence of Indian cricket legend Sunil Manohar Gavaskar and secretary of BCCI Devajit Saikia.
Speaking at the launch, Sarma described the marathon as more than just a sporting event, underlining its potential to showcase Assam’s sporting culture, natural beauty and hospitality while strengthening Guwahati’s position as a destination for international sporting events.
Gavaskar, in his brief address, highlighted the power of running to bring people together across communities and expressed his vision of developing the Guwahati International Marathon into an iconic global event. He also thanked Chief minister for his support to the race and presented Bib No. 1 to him as a symbolic endorsement of the event.
Later both Gavaskar and Sarma announced their intention to actively participate in the inaugural edition of the marathon.
Indian badminton champion P.V. Sindhu will be the Brand Ambassador of the event, with her association expected to further enhance its national and international appeal. The event will have an experienced international team at the helm. Richard Hunter of the UK will serve as Race Director, while Ian Ladbrooke will be the International Elite Athlete Coordinator. Former Asian Marathon Champion Sunita Godara will serve as the India Elite Athlete Coordinator.
GUWAHATI INTERNATIONAL MARATHON
Date: February 7, 2027
Start and finish point: Judges Field
Route: Judges Field to Gauhati University and return to Kumar Bhaskar Varma Bridge. After crossing the bridge, the runners will make their way to IIT Guwahati and then return via Kumar Bhaskar Varma Bridge, before finishing at Judges Field.
Key Promoters of the race: PMG, Assam Tourism Development Corporation (ATDC), TOPCEM Cement
Categories: Full Marathon (42.195 km), Half Marathon (21.097 km), 10 km Run, 5 km Run and 1.5 km Run.
Total Prize Money: Rs 1.25 crore
PHOTO CAPTION: Assam Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma and legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar releasing the logo of Guwahati International Marathon on Thursday. Photo: Subhamoy Bhattacharjee.