Assam CM, Sunil Gavaskar launch Guwahati International Marathon
About 12,000 people, including top athletes around the world, are expected to participate in the running event on February 7, 2027
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and former cricketer Sunil Gavaskar jointly inaugurated the Guwahati International Marathon on September 10, 2026. The marathon, which is set to occur on February 7, 2027, is anticipated to draw approximately 12,000 participants, including prominent international athletes. Organized by PMG Sports LLP, the event will offer prize money of ₹1.25 crore and races in five categories: full marathon (42.195 km), half marathon (21.097 km), 10 km, 5 km, and a 1.5 km community run.
The Chief Minister emphasized that the marathon is a significant declaration of Guwahati's potential as a premier venue for sports, fitness, and sports tourism, reflecting the State's rising ambitions on the national and international sporting front. According to Devajit Saikia, the honorary secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India, Gavaskar proposed the idea of Guwahati hosting a major running event during a meeting three months ago, which was approved by the Chief Minister in June.
Gavaskar symbolically presented Gavaskar Bib No. 1 to the Chief Minister, signifying his endorsement of the event and its goal of fostering a running movement that transcends age groups and communities. The marathon course was measured by Australia-based Kim Vivian, who aimed to merge the physical challenge of long-distance running with Guwahati's cultural and visual attractions.
The Assam Tourism Development Corporation will serve as the State sponsor, while a northeast-based cement company will act as the associate sponsor.
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