Over 1,450 runners, including para-athletes, alongside military personnel and police forces to participate in the I-Run Goa Marathon

Goa Khabar: The latest edition of the I- Run Goa Marathon, organised by the I-Help Foundation, Goa, Non-Government Organisation (NGO) has garnered more than 1450 registrations from runners across the state and country. 

Scheduled for January 5, 2025, the event will mark a significant milestone, celebrating eight years of transformative work by the foundation to uplift underprivileged communities across Goa.

With the theme being “Run for a Cause” and driven by the youth volunteering organization that supports social, educational and environmental projects, the marathon aims to raise funds for child education and women empowerment through its sub foundations that sponsors education, food, clothing and sports equipment for children in 23 orphanages across Calangute and South Goa.

Since its inception in 2017, the marathon has gained immense popularity, despite being paused for two years due to covid norms, attracting runners not only from India but also from across the globe, with over 10,000 participants in the past five editions.

“Besides raising funds for societal causes, the run promotes community building by encouraging regular running, helping participants build fitness and forming running groups,” says Praveen Maurya, the founder and spokesperson of I-Run Goa Marathon.

The marathon shall feature four race categories– 21 km half marathon, a 10 km and 5 km timed run, a 5 km charity run and a 2 km fun run. The 21 km run will begin at 5:30 AM from the Goa University ground, located next to the Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Stadium in Taleigao, Goa. The 21 km course will take participants to the Panjim Gymkhana, where they will turn around and head back to the starting point.

The marathon will also welcome participants from the armed forces, Goa Police and approximately 30 para-marathon runners.

The run, set along the scenic roads of Dona Paula and Miramar, will be supported by dedicated volunteers throughout the route with adequate hydration points, breakfast counters and support from physiotherapists and doctors to address any emergencies. Each participant will receive a medal, certificate, T-shirt, timing chip bib (except for 5 K and 2 K charity run). Adding to the excitement, Sunil Fitness Wave, will organise fun activities for participants and spectators alike.

Due to the overwhelming response, registrations have been extended for a limited time period.