The 38th Pune International Marathon will take place on Sunday, December 1, promising an unforgettable experience for both international and Indian runners, as well as local spectators. The excitement in Pune is palpable, as the city's rich cultural heritage and passion for sports come to life with this prestigious event.
First held in 1983, this marathon—organised annually by the Pune International Marathon Trust on the first Sunday of December (with the exception of a few interruptions, such as during Covid-19)—has gained recognition as India’s oldest "flagship" marathon. The Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS) has also permanently included it in its annual calendar.
The 42.195 km full marathon will begin at 3am from Sanas Ground, followed by the 21.0975 km half marathon at 6:30am, and the 10 km and 5 km races at 7:15am. Thousands of Pune’s sports enthusiasts are expected to gather at Sanas Ground to witness the spectacle.
Route Details:
The full marathon will start at Sanas Maidan, passing through Saras Baug, Mahalakshmi Chowk, Dandekar Bridge Chowk, Sinhagad Road, Ganesh Mala, Vitthalwadi, Anand Hall, and Nanded City. Runners will cover 10.5 km within Nanded City before returning to Sanas Maidan to complete the lap. The half marathon and shorter races will follow the same route with varying turn-back points.
To ensure the safety and comfort of participants, extensive facilities have been arranged by the organising committee. Under the chairmanship of Dr Rajendra Jagtap, the medical arrangements committee has mobilised 150 doctors, 250 nursing and physiotherapy staff, 10 ambulances, and a 15-bed temporary hospital at Sanas Maidan. Medical teams from Bharti Nursing College, Sancheti Physio College, Symbiosis Institute, and other institutions will be present along the route to assist athletes.
Hydration and feeding booths will be set up every 2.5 km, offering water, energy drinks, fruits and sponges. The arrangements conform to World Athletics and Athletics Federation of India standards. The route is officially recognised by the AIMS International Institute.
12 local running groups, including Runner Dudes, Shiv Sports and Balewadi Runners, will manage hydration points. A special energy drink prepared by Arogyam Sanstha, Navi Mumbai, will be available for runners.
Security and traffic control will be managed by Pune Police and the Traffic Branch, ensuring a smooth event from the night before the race until its conclusion.
50 national and international officials from the Pune District Amateur Athletics Association will oversee technical arrangements, timekeeping and monitoring at key points along the route. An electronic timing system will be used, with each runner receiving an individual timing chip embedded in their race bib.
Additionally, the cycle piloting system, led by Pune’s Cycloholics team, will assist runners throughout the race, with 50 cycle pilots and 10 motorcycle pilots guiding them along the course.
This year's marathon is expected to see participation from 8,000 to 10,000 athletes from across India, with 70 elite international runners from countries such as Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania and Nepal. Notable Indian runners, including Jyoti Gawte, Manisha Joshi and representatives from the army and police forces, will also compete.
A special highlight of this year’s event is the awarding of trophies made from bamboo by the Bamboo Society of India, symbolising sustainability and environmental responsibility—this year’s marathon mission statement.
The flat and fast course offers an excellent opportunity for athletes to achieve personal best times and qualify for other international marathons. The Athletics Federation of India has approved this event, and Pune Municipal Corporation will offer cash prizes to the winners, continuing its tradition of supporting the marathon.
