At 5 am, when most of the capital lay wrapped in sleep, Delhi felt different. The air was cool — unusually so for October — and carried a quiet excitement. Headlights sliced through the pre-dawn darkness as cars, buses, and bikes converged on Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. Streets that would soon be choked with traffic were instead lined with barricades, volunteers, and an occasional band of drummers. And in the middle of it all, tens of thousands of runners, warming up in patches of streetlight, waiting to write their story on the city’s empty roads. As the sun prepared to rise, over 40,500 people stood shoulder to shoulder, united not by speed or status but by a shared thrill — to run in the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon 2025.<h2>A Perfect Morning, A Million Smiles</h2>Delhi’s weather, often the great unknown of races, gifted runners a near-ideal morning. A soft breeze brushed past, the skies were clear, and the early light fell gently on faces already lit with anticipation. Strangers became pacers. Volunteers became cheerleaders. The rhythm of footsteps replaced the usual honking chorus. For a few rare hours, the capital felt harmonious — bound by breath, not bustle. “It was a beautiful morning in Delhi, full of energy, with over 40,000 runners and 10,000 women participating,” said Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, capturing the spirit of the day. “This morning truly belonged to the city and its people.”<h2>A Race for Everyone</h2>The 20th edition was as inclusive as it was grand. Beyond the Half Marathon, categories like the Great Delhi Run, Champions with Disability Run, and Senior Citizens Run created space for every kind of participant — from teenagers to 80-year-olds, from professional athletes to first-timers chasing their first finish line.&nbsp;More than 14,000 runners in the Great Delhi Run used their miles to champion social causes — turning personal strides into public statements. Meanwhile, the sight of senior officers from the Army, Navy, and Air Force running together — led by Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, Lt Gen Rahul R Singh, and Vice Admiral L.S. Pathania — gave the morning a proud, patriotic edge. Jammu &amp; Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah joined the Half Marathon, his sons in the 10K, making it a family affair. The Champions with Disability Run added another poignant layer. Runners on wheelchairs, with prosthetics, or assisted by guides showed that the marathon’s spirit isn’t measured in minutes per kilometre, but in courage per step.<h2>Elite Runners Set the Pace</h2>At the other end of the field, the action was fast and fierce. Kenya’s Alex Matata stormed home in 59:50 to win the men’s race, while compatriot Lilian Kasait Rengeruk claimed the women’s title in 1:07:20, underlining Kenya’s dominance yet again. Among Indians, Abhishek Pal produced a composed run to lift his third VDHM title, clocking 1:04:17, while Seema dazzled in her debut, winning the Indian women’s category in 1:11:23. International Event Ambassador Carl Lewis, nine-time Olympic champion, watched the spectacle unfold with awe. “It’s amazing to witness the energy and athleticism here,” he said. “The men and women out there today were phenomenal; it just shows how far the sport has come.”<h2>A City Runs as One</h2>Behind the scenes, 200 volunteers, 400 medical personnel, Delhi Police, DMRC, and civic bodies stitched together an operation that ensured the massive event flowed smoothly. Water stations, aid tents, clear signages, and disciplined road closures turned Delhi into a runner’s city — if only for a morning.&nbsp;<h2>A Morning to Remember</h2>By the time the city’s usual traffic took over, the runners had long crossed their finish lines. Medals hung around sweaty necks, exhausted faces were stretched into wide grins, and the sun now shone on streets that, for a brief dawn, had belonged to dreamers. The 20th Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon wasn’t merely a marathon. It was a dawn ritual — a collective act of joy, discipline, and community. In a city that often wakes up to noise, this Sunday began with rhythm.While most of the India slept, Delhi ran. And in doing so, it reminded everyone what a city can feel like when thousands chase the same sunrise together.

Before sunrise, a city in motion: How Delhi woke up through 40,500 runners at VDHM 2025

At 5 am, when most of the capital lay wrapped in sleep, Delhi felt different. The air was cool — unusually so for October — and carried a quiet excitement. Headlights sliced through the pre-dawn darkness as cars, buses, and bikes converged on Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. Streets that would soon be choked with traffic were instead lined with barricades, volunteers, and an occasional band of drummers. And in the middle of it all, tens of thousands of runners, warming up in patches of streetlight, waiting to write their story on the city’s empty roads. As the sun prepared to rise, over 40,500 people stood shoulder to shoulder, united not by speed or status but by a shared thrill — to run in the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon 2025. A Perfect Morning, A Million Smiles Delhi’s weather, often the great unknown of races, gifted runners a near-ideal morning. A soft breeze brushed past, the skies were clear, and the early light fell gently on faces already lit with anticipation. Strangers became pacers. Volunteers became cheerleaders. The rhythm of footsteps replaced the usual honking chorus. For a few rare hours, the capital felt harmonious — bound by breath, not bustle. “It was a beautiful morning in Delhi, full of energy, with over 40,000 runners and 10,000 women participating,” said Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, capturing the spirit of the day. “This morning truly belonged to the city and its people.” A Race for Everyone The 20th edition was as inclusive as it was grand. Beyond the Half Marathon, categories like the Great Delhi Run, Champions with Disability Run, and Senior Citizens Run created space for every kind of participant — from teenagers to 80-year-olds, from professional athletes to first-timers chasing their first finish line. More than 14,000 runners in the Great Delhi Run used their miles to champion social causes — turning personal strides into public statements. Meanwhile, the sight of senior officers from the Army, Navy, and Air Force running together — led by Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, Lt Gen Rahul R Singh, and Vice Admiral L.S. Pathania — gave the morning a proud, patriotic edge. Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah joined the Half Marathon, his sons in the 10K, making it a family affair. The Champions with Disability Run added another poignant layer. Runners on wheelchairs, with prosthetics, or assisted by guides showed that the marathon’s spirit isn’t measured in minutes per kilometre, but in courage per step. Elite Runners Set the Pace At the other end of the field, the action was fast and fierce. Kenya’s Alex Matata stormed home in 59:50 to win the men’s race, while compatriot Lilian Kasait Rengeruk claimed the women’s title in 1:07:20, underlining Kenya’s dominance yet again. Among Indians, Abhishek Pal produced a composed run to lift his third VDHM title, clocking 1:04:17, while Seema dazzled in her debut, winning the Indian women’s category in 1:11:23. International Event Ambassador Carl Lewis, nine-time Olympic champion, watched the spectacle unfold with awe. “It’s amazing to witness the energy and athleticism here,” he said. “The men and women out there today were phenomenal; it just shows how far the sport has come.” A City Runs as One Behind the scenes, 200 volunteers, 400 medical personnel, Delhi Police, DMRC, and civic bodies stitched together an operation that ensured the massive event flowed smoothly. Water stations, aid tents, clear signages, and disciplined road closures turned Delhi into a runner’s city — if only for a morning. A Morning to Remember By the time the city’s usual traffic took over, the runners had long crossed their finish lines. Medals hung around sweaty necks, exhausted faces were stretched into wide grins, and the sun now shone on streets that, for a brief dawn, had belonged to dreamers. The 20th Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon wasn’t merely a marathon. It was a dawn ritual — a collective act of joy, discipline, and community. In a city that often wakes up to noise, this Sunday began with rhythm. While most of the India slept, Delhi ran. And in doing so, it reminded everyone what a city can feel like when thousands chase the same sunrise together.

Before most of New Delhi woke up from their sleep, over 40,500 runners flooded Delhi’s streets under perfect weather — a dawn celebration of fitness, unity and joy

The Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon 2025 is set to feature one of the greatest athletes of all time, with Carl Lewis, a nine-time Olympic gold medalist, taking on the role of international event ambassador. Carl Lewis’s legendary athletic career continues to serve as an inspiration for athletes worldwide. Throughout his illustrious journey, he competed in four Olympic Games, securing a record nine gold medals—the most by any track and field athlete in Olympic history.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-have-heard-of-neeraj-chopra-now-meet-rinku-javelin-thrower-making-waves-and-shattering-records-at-world-para-athletics-championships-1759203830958">You have heard of Neeraj Chopra. Now, meet Rinku — Javelin thrower making waves and shattering records at World Para Athletics Championships</a><h2>Who is the international event ambassador of Delhi Half&nbsp;Marathon?</h2>Carl Lewis' breakthrough came at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, where he shot to global fame by winning four gold medals in the same events as Jesse Owens did at the 1936 Berlin Olympics: the 100-meter sprint (in 9.99 seconds), the 200-meter sprint (19.8 seconds), the long jump (8.54 meters), and the 4x100-meter relay. This remarkable achievement made him only the third athlete to win four golds in a single Olympic Games.&nbsp;Lewis went on to set a world record in the 100m at the 1988 Seoul Olympics, leap 8.67 meters in the long jump at the 1992 Barcelona Games, and help set a world record in the 4x100m relay (37.40 seconds). He concluded his Olympic career with a historic fourth consecutive gold in the long jump at the 1996 Atlanta Games, solidifying his status as one of the sport’s all-time greats.&nbsp;Reflecting on his involvement, Carl Lewis said, “Running is a universal symbol of potential and progress. Events like the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon show that the power of sport goes beyond just records and medals—it has the ability to change lives, strengthen communities, and fuel dreams. I’m thrilled to be a part of this incredible journey, as every runner, whether they are newcomers or seasoned athletes, carries the energy to break boundaries, inspire others, and achieve greatness. Let’s run not only for speed, but for the spirit that drives us all forward.”&nbsp;Priya Agarwal Hebbar, non-executive director at Vedanta Limited, expressed excitement about Carl Lewis’s association, saying, “It is a privilege to have Carl Lewis as the International Event Ambassador for this year’s marathon. His career is a powerful testament to human potential, much like the values embodied by the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon."<h2>When is the Delhi Half Marathon?</h2>The race, which will be held at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on October 12, will see the legendary sprinter and long jumper flagging off the event.

Delhi Half Marathon: Legendary American track and field athlete Carl Lewis announced as international event ambassador

The Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon 2025 is set to feature one of the greatest athletes of all time, with Carl Lewis, a nine-time Olympic gold medalist, taking on the role of international event ambassador. Carl Lewis’s legendary athletic career continues to serve as an inspiration for athletes worldwide. Throughout his illustrious journey, he competed in four Olympic Games, securing a record nine gold medals—the most by any track and field athlete in Olympic history. Also Read: You have heard of Neeraj Chopra. Now, meet Rinku — Javelin thrower making waves and shattering records at World Para Athletics Championships Who is the international event ambassador of Delhi Half Marathon? Carl Lewis' breakthrough came at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, where he shot to global fame by winning four gold medals in the same events as Jesse Owens did at the 1936 Berlin Olympics: the 100-meter sprint (in 9.99 seconds), the 200-meter sprint (19.8 seconds), the long jump (8.54 meters), and the 4x100-meter relay. This remarkable achievement made him only the third athlete to win four golds in a single Olympic Games. Lewis went on to set a world record in the 100m at the 1988 Seoul Olympics, leap 8.67 meters in the long jump at the 1992 Barcelona Games, and help set a world record in the 4x100m relay (37.40 seconds). He concluded his Olympic career with a historic fourth consecutive gold in the long jump at the 1996 Atlanta Games, solidifying his status as one of the sport’s all-time greats. Reflecting on his involvement, Carl Lewis said, “Running is a universal symbol of potential and progress. Events like the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon show that the power of sport goes beyond just records and medals—it has the ability to change lives, strengthen communities, and fuel dreams. I’m thrilled to be a part of this incredible journey, as every runner, whether they are newcomers or seasoned athletes, carries the energy to break boundaries, inspire others, and achieve greatness. Let’s run not only for speed, but for the spirit that drives us all forward.” Priya Agarwal Hebbar, non-executive director at Vedanta Limited, expressed excitement about Carl Lewis’s association, saying, “It is a privilege to have Carl Lewis as the International Event Ambassador for this year’s marathon. His career is a powerful testament to human potential, much like the values embodied by the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon." When is the Delhi Half Marathon? The race, which will be held at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on October 12, will see the legendary sprinter and long jumper flagging off the event.

The Delhi Half Marathon is set to take place on October 12, 2025. More than 30,000 people have already registered for the half marathon

As the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon (VDHM) gears up for its landmark 20th edition, two names stand out as living symbols of commitment—Virat Bhushan from Delhi and Suvir Khullar from Mumbai. They have run every single edition of the race since its inception in 2005, and their unbroken streak has now earned them a place in the newly launched VDHM Stars Club.&nbsp;The VDHM Stars Club, unveiled last month, celebrates runners who have completed the 21.097 km Half Marathon at least 15 times. It currently has only 40 members, and Virat and Suvir are its most experienced faces, having taking part in all 19 past editions. Among the women, Rashmi Mohanty and Shruti Saxena will join the club this year as they prepare for their 15th run on October 12.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-boxing-championships-2025-minakshi-jaismine-nupur-register-dominant-wins-to-reach-finals-1757768872233">World Boxing Championships 2025: Minakshi, Jaismine, Nupur register dominant wins to reach finals</a>&nbsp;At 63, Virat defies the conventional image of a slow-paced retirement. A devoted runner since 1978, he sees running as a lifelong companion. “For 48 years, running has been part of who I am. It’s not about a finish line—it’s about the journey,” he said. Suvir, now 54, found running much later. Once teased about his weight, he embraced running to build discipline and has never looked back. “I had no goal except to stay consistent. To now be recognised as a VDHM Star feels like validation of all those years,” he shared.&nbsp;Both men praise the marathon’s evolution from a few hundred runners in 2005 to one of the world’s most sought-after races today. Virat loves the shared energy of the event—“You run alone, but also together”—while Suvir treasures it as an annual reunion with friends and family in Delhi, wrapped in the city’s infectious spirit and food. Having run over 60 marathons, one-third of them in Delhi, he calls VDHM “my own event.”

They came for one race, stayed for twenty: Meet the ever-present duo of VDHM

As the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon (VDHM) gears up for its landmark 20th edition, two names stand out as living symbols of commitment—Virat Bhushan from Delhi and Suvir Khullar from Mumbai. They have run every single edition of the race since its inception in 2005, and their unbroken streak has now earned them a place in the newly launched VDHM Stars Club. The VDHM Stars Club, unveiled last month, celebrates runners who have completed the 21.097 km Half Marathon at least 15 times. It currently has only 40 members, and Virat and Suvir are its most experienced faces, having taking part in all 19 past editions. Among the women, Rashmi Mohanty and Shruti Saxena will join the club this year as they prepare for their 15th run on October 12. Also Read: World Boxing Championships 2025: Minakshi, Jaismine, Nupur register dominant wins to reach finals At 63, Virat defies the conventional image of a slow-paced retirement. A devoted runner since 1978, he sees running as a lifelong companion. “For 48 years, running has been part of who I am. It’s not about a finish line—it’s about the journey,” he said. Suvir, now 54, found running much later. Once teased about his weight, he embraced running to build discipline and has never looked back. “I had no goal except to stay consistent. To now be recognised as a VDHM Star feels like validation of all those years,” he shared. Both men praise the marathon’s evolution from a few hundred runners in 2005 to one of the world’s most sought-after races today. Virat loves the shared energy of the event—“You run alone, but also together”—while Suvir treasures it as an annual reunion with friends and family in Delhi, wrapped in the city’s infectious spirit and food. Having run over 60 marathons, one-third of them in Delhi, he calls VDHM “my own event.”

Virat Bhushan and Suvir Khullar, who have run every Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon since 2005, return for its 20th edition as proud members of the new VDHM Stars Club

Olympian Joshua Cheptegei lived up to his billing to take home the men’s crown. At the same time, Alemaddis Eyayu pushed pre-race favourite Cynthia Limo behind for a surprise win in the women’s race in Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, a World Athletics Gold Label Road Race, in New Delhi on Sunday.

Kenya’s Alex Matata (27) led a major part of the race with his teammate Nicholas Kipkorir, who ran his maiden half marathon internationally. Kipkorir was a bronze medalist in the 5 km World Championships last year.

Matata was unbeaten in all three races he took part in in Europe earlier this year, clocking&nbsp; sub-60 minutes in two of them.&nbsp;That made the race exciting, and everyone was looking for fast finish timing from the men’s winner.&nbsp;Matata kept&nbsp;the lead until the runners turned towards the finish line in the Jawahar Lal Nehru Stadium, where the race commenced less than an hour earlier to decide the 2024 title.&nbsp;Cheptegei, running seconds behind the Kenyan, realized the now-or-never situation and came from behind to snatch the lead from Matata to win in 59 minutes 46 seconds. Matata (59:53) and Kipkorir (59:59) completed the podium with the Ugandan.&nbsp;

Incidentally, the Vedanta Delhi half marathon was one of the fastest races in the World and usually saw incredible timings by the participants. Ethiopian Deriba Merga was the first to post a sub-60-minute winning time in 2008, when all the podium finishers dipped under 1 hour. This action was repeated several times in some of the subsequent editions at Delhi, wherein 2014 witnessed a record number of nine runners finishing within 60 minutes.

Former world champion Muktar Edris from Ethiopia, another pre-race favourite, finished fifth (60:52), while Tanzania’s Alphonce Simbu (60:40) got the fourth place.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-lauds-sarfaraz-pant-for-mature-knocks-backs-india-to-give-it-all-in-remaining-two-tests-vs-nz-769154">Rohit Sharma lauds Sarfaraz, Pant for mature knocks; backs India to give it all in remaining two Tests vs NZ</a>

<h2>Eyayu beats favourite Limo to win the women’s title</h2>

Alemaddis Eyayu extended the Ethiopian winning streak in Delhi.&nbsp;Kenya’s Cynthia Limo, the pre-race favourite, led the field right from the beginning, while Scotland’s Commonwealth Champion Eilish McColgan trailed behind all the time.&nbsp;McColgan had the fastest and only sub-66 minute timing among the elite women who took the starting lineup.&nbsp;However, two Ethiopians, Eyayu and Tiruye Mesfin stuck with Limo for the entire part.

Olympian Joshua Cheptegei lived up to his billing to take home the men’s crown. At the same time, Alemaddis Eyayu pushed pre-race favourite Cynthia Limo behind for a surprise win in the women’s race in Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, a World Athletics Gold Label Road Race, in New Delhi on Sunday.

Olympian Joshua Cheptegei lived up to his billing to take home the men’s crown. At the same time, Alemaddis Eyayu pushed pre-race favourite Cynthia Limo behind for a surprise win in the women’s race in Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, a World Athletics Gold Label Road Race, in New Delhi on Sunday. Kenya’s Alex Matata (27) led a major part of the race with his teammate Nicholas Kipkorir, who ran his maiden half marathon internationally. Kipkorir was a bronze medalist in the 5 km World Championships last year. Matata was unbeaten in all three races he took part in in Europe earlier this year, clocking sub-60 minutes in two of them. That made the race exciting, and everyone was looking for fast finish timing from the men’s winner. Matata kept the lead until the runners turned towards the finish line in the Jawahar Lal Nehru Stadium, where the race commenced less than an hour earlier to decide the 2024 title. Cheptegei, running seconds behind the Kenyan, realized the now-or-never situation and came from behind to snatch the lead from Matata to win in 59 minutes 46 seconds. Matata (59:53) and Kipkorir (59:59) completed the podium with the Ugandan. Incidentally, the Vedanta Delhi half marathon was one of the fastest races in the World and usually saw incredible timings by the participants. Ethiopian Deriba Merga was the first to post a sub-60-minute winning time in 2008, when all the podium finishers dipped under 1 hour. This action was repeated several times in some of the subsequent editions at Delhi, wherein 2014 witnessed a record number of nine runners finishing within 60 minutes. Former world champion Muktar Edris from Ethiopia, another pre-race favourite, finished fifth (60:52), while Tanzania’s Alphonce Simbu (60:40) got the fourth place. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma lauds Sarfaraz, Pant for mature knocks; backs India to give it all in remaining two Tests vs NZ Eyayu beats favourite Limo to win the women’s title Alemaddis Eyayu extended the Ethiopian winning streak in Delhi. Kenya’s Cynthia Limo, the pre-race favourite, led the field right from the beginning, while Scotland’s Commonwealth Champion Eilish McColgan trailed behind all the time. McColgan had the fastest and only sub-66 minute timing among the elite women who took the starting lineup. However, two Ethiopians, Eyayu and Tiruye Mesfin stuck with Limo for the entire part.

Delhi Half Marathon: Joshua Cheptegei takes home crown, Alemaddis Eyayu stuns Cynthia Limo

Top doctors have warned elite runners are taking a major health risk by competing in Sunday's New Delhi half-marathon in the midst of a major coronavirus outbreak and soaring air pollution.

Women's marathon world record-holder Brigid Kosgei from Kenya and Ethiopia's two-time men's winner Andamlak Belihu are among the 49 elite athletes running the 21-kilometre (13.1 miles) race, while thousands of amateurs are taking part virtually.

Organisers say the "highest level of safety standards, with bio-secure zones", have been laid on for the race starting at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.

But with New Delhi recording more than 500,000 virus cases, and air quality in the world's most polluted capital hovering between 'unhealthy' and 'hazardous', health experts said the athletes should think twice.

"It will be suicidal for runners to run the race this time. We have such high levels of pollution, we have the risk of coronavirus," Arvind Kumar, founder trustee of the Lung Care Foundation, told AFP.

"With the presence of this twin threat if people are still running despite knowing everything, well, I have no words to express my anguish."

"Whether you are an international elite runner or you are a small boy from a village, the damaging potential of a damaging agent remains the same," said the doctor.

Toxic mix

Randeep Guleria, director of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), the country's top research body, told AFP that "in an ideal situation" the race should not be run.

"Because of high levels of air pollution, exercising outside in this weather sometimes can lead to aggravation of underlying lung problems," he said.

"Even if you are an elite runner the air pollution would still affect your lung."

Normally thousands of amateurs would also take part, but because of the coronavirus they have been told to run their chosen route between Wednesday and Sunday and chart their time on an app.

Delhi has been hit by a winter pollution crisis each year for the past decade when crop-stubble burning from nearby states, cold temperatures and car and industrial pollution produce a toxic mix.

This year, the Indian capital is also a major concern in the battle against the coronavirus. India is the world's second worst-hit country behind the United States, with about 9.3 million cases.

The city is considering imposing a night-time curfew because of the rising number of cases, according to media reports.

Kosgei, who is visiting India for the first time, acknowledged her concerns about travelling for the race.

"We have definitely been affected by Covid-19. I had to convince my parents and family back home to allow me to visit Delhi for the half-marathon," she said.

"The virus has affected most of the sporting events. But it is important for us to take care of ourselves." 
As in other countries, nearly all sport in India has been cancelled.

After repeated delays, the Indian Premier League cricket went ahead in the United Arab Emirates and the Indian Super League football is being held in a bio-secure "bubble" in Goa.

Top doctors have warned elite runners are taking a major health risk by competing in Sunday's New Delhi half-marathon in the midst of a major coronavirus outbreak and soaring air pollution.

Top doctors have warned elite runners are taking a major health risk by competing in Sunday's New Delhi half-marathon in the midst of a major coronavirus outbreak and soaring air pollution. Women's marathon world record-holder Brigid Kosgei from Kenya and Ethiopia's two-time men's winner Andamlak Belihu are among the 49 elite athletes running the 21-kilometre (13.1 miles) race, while thousands of amateurs are taking part virtually. Organisers say the "highest level of safety standards, with bio-secure zones", have been laid on for the race starting at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. But with New Delhi recording more than 500,000 virus cases, and air quality in the world's most polluted capital hovering between 'unhealthy' and 'hazardous', health experts said the athletes should think twice. "It will be suicidal for runners to run the race this time. We have such high levels of pollution, we have the risk of coronavirus," Arvind Kumar, founder trustee of the Lung Care Foundation, told AFP. "With the presence of this twin threat if people are still running despite knowing everything, well, I have no words to express my anguish." "Whether you are an international elite runner or you are a small boy from a village, the damaging potential of a damaging agent remains the same," said the doctor. Toxic mix Randeep Guleria, director of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), the country's top research body, told AFP that "in an ideal situation" the race should not be run. "Because of high levels of air pollution, exercising outside in this weather sometimes can lead to aggravation of underlying lung problems," he said. "Even if you are an elite runner the air pollution would still affect your lung." Normally thousands of amateurs would also take part, but because of the coronavirus they have been told to run their chosen route between Wednesday and Sunday and chart their time on an app. Delhi has been hit by a winter pollution crisis each year for the past decade when crop-stubble burning from nearby states, cold temperatures and car and industrial pollution produce a toxic mix. This year, the Indian capital is also a major concern in the battle against the coronavirus. India is the world's second worst-hit country behind the United States, with about 9.3 million cases. The city is considering imposing a night-time curfew because of the rising number of cases, according to media reports. Kosgei, who is visiting India for the first time, acknowledged her concerns about travelling for the race. "We have definitely been affected by Covid-19. I had to convince my parents and family back home to allow me to visit Delhi for the half-marathon," she said. "The virus has affected most of the sporting events. But it is important for us to take care of ourselves." As in other countries, nearly all sport in India has been cancelled. After repeated delays, the Indian Premier League cricket went ahead in the United Arab Emirates and the Indian Super League football is being held in a bio-secure "bubble" in Goa.

‘Suicidal for runners’: Doctors warn against Delhi Half Marathon

The Delhi High Court on Thursday allowed half-marathon in Delhi to go ahead on November 19 after the organisers told the court that they have put in place a refund policy for those who want to opt out.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pollution-levels-high-court-issues-notice-to-delhi-government-over-half-marathon-24172">The organisers also assured the court that they are taking measures in case of any medical emergencies,</a> reports new agency ANI.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-medical-association-writes-to-delhi-cm-asking-him-to-cancel-airtel-delhi-half-marathon-23638">The Delhi High Court had earlier issued notice to the Delhi government,</a> the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), organisers of the half marathon event and the Delhi Police on a letter by the Indian Medical Association (IMA) requesting the court to postpone the event, scheduled for November 19, as the air quality in the national capital is &ldquo;unsafe and poor&rdquo;.

Noting the urgency of the present air pollution, a bench of Justice S Ravindra Bhat and Justice Sanjeev Sanchdeva sought the reply of authorities by November 6. Earlier, the IMA had written a letter to Acting Chief Justice Gita Mittal and Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal seeking directions to postpone the event.

Procam International, who are conducting the race, had, however, said they are concerned about the current pollution level in the city, but believe the situation would stabilise before race day. In all, as per the organisers, 35,000 runners will be participating in the race.

The organisers also assured the court that they are taking measures in case of any medical emergencies

The Delhi High Court on Thursday allowed half-marathon in Delhi to go ahead on November 19 after the organisers told the court that they have put in place a refund policy for those who want to opt out. The organisers also assured the court that they are taking measures in case of any medical emergencies, reports new agency ANI. The Delhi High Court had earlier issued notice to the Delhi government, the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), organisers of the half marathon event and the Delhi Police on a letter by the Indian Medical Association (IMA) requesting the court to postpone the event, scheduled for November 19, as the air quality in the national capital is “unsafe and poor”. Noting the urgency of the present air pollution, a bench of Justice S Ravindra Bhat and Justice Sanjeev Sanchdeva sought the reply of authorities by November 6. Earlier, the IMA had written a letter to Acting Chief Justice Gita Mittal and Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal seeking directions to postpone the event. Procam International, who are conducting the race, had, however, said they are concerned about the current pollution level in the city, but believe the situation would stabilise before race day. In all, as per the organisers, 35,000 runners will be participating in the race.

High court allows Delhi Half-Marathon to go ahead on November 19

The Delhi government <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/odd-even-wont-help-centre-ready-to-step-in-nitin-gadkari-on-delhi-pollution-24173">has decided to withdraw&nbsp;its petition for modifications</a> to the odd-even scheme for vehicles.&nbsp;

The National Green Tribunal(NGT) slammed the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pollution-levels-high-court-issues-notice-to-delhi-government-over-half-marathon-24172">Delhi government today asking why it cannot run ladies</a> buses to solve the transportation problem during the odd-even scheme.

On Saturday, the Delhi government had withdrawn the odd-even scheme for vehicles after the NGT had declared no exemptions should be given to women drivers and government vehicles. The Delhi government felt NGT&#39;s &quot;no exemption&quot; rule would affect women&#39;s safety in the city.

The NGT said the government should &quot;take care of logical explanations&quot; for odd-even exemptions when they approach the tribunal again.&nbsp;

The NGT said: &quot;When reports have stated that two-wheelers are more polluting than four-wheelers, why do you intend to give arbitrary exemptions? Is this a joke? What does one stand to gain from this?&quot;

&quot;Don&#39;t gift infected lungs to children. They have to wear masks to school,&quot; NGT told the Delhi government, adding,&quot;What constitutes a health emergency according to you?&quot; &nbsp;

&quot;Measures should be applied automatically by the government after dangerous levels of PM 2.5 and PM 10 persists for more than 48 hours,&quot; the tribunal said.

Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court issued a notice to the Delhi government and other agencies today over the postponement of Delhi Half Marathon due to poor air quality.&nbsp;

The High Court asked the Kejriwal government including the Delhi pollution control committee, police and the organizers of the marathon to appraise the court on whether the half marathon event should be held on Sunday.

On Monday, the Supreme Court had issued notices to Center, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana and Delhi governments on the petition on stubble burning and dust pollution.

&nbsp;

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The Delhi government had withdrawn the odd-even scheme for vehicles after the NGT had declared no exemptions should be given to women drivers and government vehicles.

The Delhi government has decided to withdraw its petition for modifications to the odd-even scheme for vehicles. The National Green Tribunal(NGT) slammed the Delhi government today asking why it cannot run ladies buses to solve the transportation problem during the odd-even scheme. On Saturday, the Delhi government had withdrawn the odd-even scheme for vehicles after the NGT had declared no exemptions should be given to women drivers and government vehicles. The Delhi government felt NGT's "no exemption" rule would affect women's safety in the city. The NGT said the government should "take care of logical explanations" for odd-even exemptions when they approach the tribunal again. The NGT said: "When reports have stated that two-wheelers are more polluting than four-wheelers, why do you intend to give arbitrary exemptions? Is this a joke? What does one stand to gain from this?" "Don't gift infected lungs to children. They have to wear masks to school," NGT told the Delhi government, adding,"What constitutes a health emergency according to you?" "Measures should be applied automatically by the government after dangerous levels of PM 2.5 and PM 10 persists for more than 48 hours," the tribunal said. Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court issued a notice to the Delhi government and other agencies today over the postponement of Delhi Half Marathon due to poor air quality. The High Court asked the Kejriwal government including the Delhi pollution control committee, police and the organizers of the marathon to appraise the court on whether the half marathon event should be held on Sunday. On Monday, the Supreme Court had issued notices to Center, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana and Delhi governments on the petition on stubble burning and dust pollution.

Delhi government withdraws petition to modify odd-even scheme

The Delhi High Court has issued a notice <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/odd-even-wont-help-centre-ready-to-step-in-nitin-gadkari-on-delhi-pollution-24173">to the Delhi government and other agencies over&nbsp;</a>postponement of Delhi Half Marathon due to poor air quality.

The Indian Medical Association had filed a plea in the High Court to postpone the Delhi half marathon due to held on November 19th.

The High Court asked the Kejriwal government including the Delhi pollution control committee, police and the organizers of the marathon to&nbsp;appraise the court on whether the half marathon event should be held on Sunday.

On Monday, the Supreme Court had issued notices to Center, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana and Delhi governments on the petition on stubble burning and dust pollution. India&#39;s top court had sought expeditious action from the authorities.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) had banned construction and industrial activities in Delhi-NCR till November 14 as pollution levels rose alarmingly in the national capital.

&quot;It is shameful for all the parties in this matter on what they&#39;re passing on to the next generation,&quot; the tribunal had observed.

NGT had banned construction and industrial activities in Delhi-NCR till November 14 as pollution levels rose alarmingly in the national capital.

The Delhi High Court has issued a notice to the Delhi government and other agencies over postponement of Delhi Half Marathon due to poor air quality. The Indian Medical Association had filed a plea in the High Court to postpone the Delhi half marathon due to held on November 19th. The High Court asked the Kejriwal government including the Delhi pollution control committee, police and the organizers of the marathon to appraise the court on whether the half marathon event should be held on Sunday. On Monday, the Supreme Court had issued notices to Center, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana and Delhi governments on the petition on stubble burning and dust pollution. India's top court had sought expeditious action from the authorities. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) had banned construction and industrial activities in Delhi-NCR till November 14 as pollution levels rose alarmingly in the national capital. "It is shameful for all the parties in this matter on what they're passing on to the next generation," the tribunal had observed.

Pollution levels: High Court issues notice to Delhi government over half marathon

Sports enthusiasts can look forward to the Airtel Delhi Half Marathon (ADHM) which kicks off this Sunday across prominent landmarks in the Indian capital.&nbsp;

The total prize money for the event, which includes the Great Delhi Run (6 km), the Senior Citizen&#39;s Run (4 km), the Champions with Disability (4 km), and the feature race, will be $2,70,000. But not many know that this globally watched event is a major contributor to charity.

Asafa Powell, the Jamaican sprinter and three times world record holder, will be the brand ambassador for the event. Also sweating it out will 12,000 runners including 13 Rio Olympians.&nbsp;

Among the top contenders are Kenya&rsquo;s world half marathon champion Peres Jepchirchir, Worknesh Degefa --- a half marathon specialist who has run 22 marathons, Stephen Kiprotich, the London 2012 Olympic marathon champion, rising Tanzanian runner Alphonse Sambu who was placed fifth at Rio, Gladys Chesir, who finished third at the ADHM last year and Tesfaye Abera, winner of the 2015 Standard Chartered Mumbai Marathon.

19,972 people are expected to participate in the Great Delhi Run, 1004 senior citizens, and 445 people in the Champions with Disability category, taking the total number of participants to 34,325.&nbsp;

The route will cover eminent landmarks, including Parliament House, Rajpath, India Gate, Delhi Golf Club, Lodhi Road and Sansad Marg.

The entry fee is Rs 1,700 and Rs 600 for the Great Delhi Run, Rs 300 for the Senior Citizen&#39;s run and Rs 250 for the Champions with Disability category.

(WION)

Top runners from around the world, including Jamaican sprinter Asafa Powell will be participating in the charity event in Delhi this weekend

Sports enthusiasts can look forward to the Airtel Delhi Half Marathon (ADHM) which kicks off this Sunday across prominent landmarks in the Indian capital. The total prize money for the event, which includes the Great Delhi Run (6 km), the Senior Citizen's Run (4 km), the Champions with Disability (4 km), and the feature race, will be $2,70,000. But not many know that this globally watched event is a major contributor to charity. Asafa Powell, the Jamaican sprinter and three times world record holder, will be the brand ambassador for the event. Also sweating it out will 12,000 runners including 13 Rio Olympians. Among the top contenders are Kenya’s world half marathon champion Peres Jepchirchir, Worknesh Degefa --- a half marathon specialist who has run 22 marathons, Stephen Kiprotich, the London 2012 Olympic marathon champion, rising Tanzanian runner Alphonse Sambu who was placed fifth at Rio, Gladys Chesir, who finished third at the ADHM last year and Tesfaye Abera, winner of the 2015 Standard Chartered Mumbai Marathon. 19,972 people are expected to participate in the Great Delhi Run, 1004 senior citizens, and 445 people in the Champions with Disability category, taking the total number of participants to 34,325. The route will cover eminent landmarks, including Parliament House, Rajpath, India Gate, Delhi Golf Club, Lodhi Road and Sansad Marg. The entry fee is Rs 1,700 and Rs 600 for the Great Delhi Run, Rs 300 for the Senior Citizen's run and Rs 250 for the Champions with Disability category. (WION)

Delhi Half Marathon: Top athletes, Delhiites gear up for run

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