Mumbai is set to witness the Kargil Vijay Soldierathon Marathon on July 28, 2024, at the Military Station in Colaba as a part of the 25th-anniversary celebrations of India’s victory in the Kargil War. This tribute marathon is organized by Fitistan-Ek Fit Bharat in collaboration with Headquarters MG & G Area, honoring the 527 soldiers who lost their lives defending India’s sovereignty in the 1999 conflict.
The event promises participants a unique experience of running alongside soldiers and Kargil war veterans, encapsulating the essence of bravery, resilience, and the patriotic ethos of ‘Country Above All’. The marathon aims to not only challenge the physical endurance of the runners but also to celebrate the indomitable spirit of the Indian soldiers.
Registration for the event is open until July 7, 2024, and includes categories for a 10 km timed run for participants aged 14 and above, and a 5 km non-timed fun run for those aged 10 and above. The race will commence at 0600 hrs from the Military Station Ground, providing a scenic route through the navy and army areas of Colaba.
Kargil Soldierathon Important Details
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Kargil Vijay Soldierathon Marathon |
| Date | July 28, 2024 |
| Location | Military Station, Colaba, Mumbai |
| Organizers | Fitistan-Ek Fit Bharat and Headquarters MG & G Area |
| Purpose | To honor the 527 soldiers who died in the Kargil War and celebrate the 25th anniversary of the victory |
| Unique Experience | Run alongside soldiers and Kargil war veterans |
| Themes | Bravery, resilience, and patriotic ethos ‘Country Above All’ |
| Registration Deadline | July 7, 2024 |
| Race Categories | 10 km Timed Run (14 years and above), 5 km Non-Timed Fun Run (10 years and above) |
| Flag Off Time | 0600 hrs |
| Route | Starts and ends at Military Station Ground Colaba, through scenic navy/Army areas |
| Participant Benefits | Dry-Fit T-shirt, Achiever Medal, Breakfast, Hydration, Medical Support, Photos, Certificates |
| Ticket Policy | Non-cancellable, non-refundable, non-transferable |
| Note | T-shirt size specified during registration cannot be changed at Race/BIB expo |
Participants will receive a variety of benefits including a dry-fit T-shirt, an achiever medal, breakfast, hydration supports, a timed race certificate for the 10 km participants, and a participation certificate for the 5 km fun run, along with a goodie bag, medical support, and event photographs.
However, it is noted that booked tickets are non-cancellable, non-refundable, and non-transferable, and T-shirt sizes selected during registration cannot be changed at the Race/BIB expo.
What is Soldierathon?
Soldierathon is a unique initiative envisioned by Major Dr. Surendra Poonia, VSM, under the mentorship of the late Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, former President of India. The concept was born out of a profound desire to raise public awareness about the sacrifices of Indian soldiers and to provide ongoing support to the families of martyrs and war-wounded veterans. Although Dr. Kalam did not live to see the event come to fruition, Major Poonia committed himself to turning this vision into reality.
The marathon serves several key objectives. It aims to honor the martyrs who have laid down their lives and the soldiers who have sustained injuries in the line of duty. Beyond commemoration, Soldierathon seeks to foster a positive and supportive atmosphere throughout the nation. It is particularly focused on educating the youth about the immense sacrifices made by the armed forces to maintain the nation’s integrity, unity, sovereignty, and safety.
By participating in Soldierathon, citizens, especially the younger generation, are encouraged to develop a deep respect and pride for the soldiers who tirelessly serve the country around the clock. This event is more than a marathon; it is a movement to ensure that the heroic deeds of India’s soldiers are remembered and that their families receive the recognition and support they deserve.
