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

Kenya’s Alex Matata and Lilian Kasait Rengeruk stamped their dominance at the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon 2025 on Sunday (October 12), clinching the men’s and women’s elite titles in pleasant weather conditions. Matata, who had finished as runner-up in last year’s edition, executed a well-planned race to cross the finish line in 59 minutes and 50 seconds. He edged past Ethiopia’s Boyelign Teshager, who clocked 1:00:22, while fellow Kenyan James Kipkogei secured third place with a time of 1:00:25.&nbsp;In the women’s elite race, Rengeruk delivered a strong performance, finishing in 1:07:20 to claim the top spot. She narrowly beat Ethiopians Melal Siyoum Biratu (1:07:21) and Mulat Tekle (1:07:29), who finished second and third respectively. Among the Indian contingent, Abhishek Pal and Seema emerged as the fastest male and female runners. Pal completed the course in 1:04:17, while Seema clocked 1:11:23.&nbsp;Speaking after the marathon, Abhishek Pal while speaking to WION said, “My brother, Rahul Kumar Pal, who is also my coach, told me how to do it and how to go about the marathon. Earlier, many people used to tell me to go back but this time I went ahead right from the starting.” Meanwhile, Seema shared her thoughts about the marathon. She said, "I am feeling good and sad at the same time because I have missed the course record by not much. But I hope that next time when I come to compete, I will do my best to break the record. The record was running in my mind throughout but due to the unbalance of my body towards the end, I got a little confused. Still, I did my best.”&nbsp;Celebrating its 20th edition this year, the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon holds the World Athletics Gold Label status and offers a total prize purse of $260,000.

Kenya’s Alex Matata and Lilian Kasait Rengeruk triumphed in the men’s and women’s elite races at the 20th Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon held on Sunday (October 12)

Kenya’s Alex Matata and Lilian Kasait Rengeruk stamped their dominance at the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon 2025 on Sunday (October 12), clinching the men’s and women’s elite titles in pleasant weather conditions. Matata, who had finished as runner-up in last year’s edition, executed a well-planned race to cross the finish line in 59 minutes and 50 seconds. He edged past Ethiopia’s Boyelign Teshager, who clocked 1:00:22, while fellow Kenyan James Kipkogei secured third place with a time of 1:00:25. In the women’s elite race, Rengeruk delivered a strong performance, finishing in 1:07:20 to claim the top spot. She narrowly beat Ethiopians Melal Siyoum Biratu (1:07:21) and Mulat Tekle (1:07:29), who finished second and third respectively. Among the Indian contingent, Abhishek Pal and Seema emerged as the fastest male and female runners. Pal completed the course in 1:04:17, while Seema clocked 1:11:23. Speaking after the marathon, Abhishek Pal while speaking to WION said, “My brother, Rahul Kumar Pal, who is also my coach, told me how to do it and how to go about the marathon. Earlier, many people used to tell me to go back but this time I went ahead right from the starting.” Meanwhile, Seema shared her thoughts about the marathon. She said, "I am feeling good and sad at the same time because I have missed the course record by not much. But I hope that next time when I come to compete, I will do my best to break the record. The record was running in my mind throughout but due to the unbalance of my body towards the end, I got a little confused. Still, I did my best.” Celebrating its 20th edition this year, the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon holds the World Athletics Gold Label status and offers a total prize purse of $260,000.

Kenya’s Alex Matata and Lilian Kasait Rengeruk triumphed in the men’s and women’s elite races at the 20th Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon held on Sunday (October 12)

Delhi Half Marathon 2025: Kenya's Alex Matata and Lilian Kasait Rengeruk clinch title

In the pantheon of sporting legends, few names command the same reverence as Carl Lewis — former American track and field athlete. Over the course of a glittering career that spanned four Olympic Games, Lewis amassed 9 Olympic gold medals and 8 World Championship titles — the most by any track and field athlete in modern Olympic history. Lewis broke the world record in Seoul 1988’s 100m final, soared 8.67 metres in long jump and anchored the US world record 4x100m relay team in Barcelona 1992, and capped his career with an unprecedented fourth consecutive long jump gold at Atlanta 1996, cementing his place as one of the greatest track and field athletes of all time.&nbsp;&nbsp;His performances transcended sport — whether it was matching Jesse Owens’ iconic four-gold feat at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, anchoring record-breaking relay teams, or leaping to an unprecedented fourth consecutive long jump gold at Atlanta 1996, Lewis didn’t just win; he redefined excellence. Yet behind the global icon who sprinted and soared to history lies a surprisingly simple truth. When asked to describe himself in one word, Carl Lewis chooses “Homebody.”“I like to be at home,” he said with a smile. “I come home every day. I’ve had someone cook for me since the mid-80s. After practice, I come home for dinner, take a nap, and that’s my life. I like being home.”&nbsp;This understated self-description sets the tone for a man whose extraordinary achievements were built not on constant spectacle but on routine, discipline, and a deeply grounded lifestyle. It is this champion’s mindset that Lewis brought to New Delhi as the International Event Ambassador for the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon (VDHM) 2025, a World Athletics Gold Label race that has grown into a cultural and sporting landmark in India.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-planning-big-action-against-acc-chief-mohsin-naqvi-for-denying-india-asia-cup-trophy-1760112584712">BCCI planning BIG action against ACC chief Mohsin Naqvi for denying India Asia Cup trophy</a>&nbsp;At a packed press conference in the capital, Lewis spoke passionately about how the marathon is about more than just competition. “Breaking barriers is at the very heart of what the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon represents,” he said. “What makes it unique is not just breaking barriers, but the cultural shift it inspires through sport. When amateurs run alongside Olympic champions, it shows how running can unite people from all walks of life. Every runner can say, ‘I ran with her, I ran with him,’ and that experience is truly inspiring.”&nbsp;When the conversation turns to doping, Lewis is characteristically forthright. India’s athletics community has been grappling with a surge in doping cases, and Lewis, who competed in a heavily scrutinised era, views it as both progress and challenge. “I think the numbers are going up because testing is getting better,” he explains. “But it’s concentrated in certain areas, not globally. We have to keep testing and create a sense of forever fear.”&nbsp;For him, accountability is the missing piece. “If someone tests positive, we shouldn’t just get rid of them and move on. We should go after them financially. If you can’t reimburse or pay a fine, maybe your career ends. That’s on you.” He also points to broader cultural shifts. “We live in a world where fake things are allowed to become important. That’s why conversations around ‘enhanced games’ even exist. It’s less about sports and more about culture now.”&nbsp;Lewis has watched the sport evolve dramatically since his prime. He readily acknowledges improvements in nutrition and technology, but he is concerned about the erosion of fundamental technique. “Nutrition and video technology have improved a lot,” he says. “But mechanics are worse. On Instagram, 95% of people teaching running are wrong. Thirty or forty years ago, there was accountability — the best people didn’t advertise; others advertised for them. Now anyone can give bad advice online.”&nbsp;He points to systemic issues, too, like the lack of qualified physical education teachers in the US and the trend of renaming poor techniques to make them sound acceptable. “Science doesn’t change. But people are ignoring it,” he says, almost like a coach urging a return to the basics. On India’s sporting ecosystem, Lewis is equally clear-eyed. “India has enough talent to be a power in sports,” he says firmly. “What’s missing is infrastructure. Once infrastructure and role models are in place, minds will change. You have to show people it can be done.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-relentless-aryna-sabalenka-marches-wuhan-semi-finals-coco-gauff-makes-light-work-of-laura-siegemund-1760093869490">Aryna Sabalenka marches Wuhan semi-finals, Coco Gauff makes light work of Laura Siegemund</a>&nbsp;It’s a sentiment that resonates in a country where many young athletes pursue sports not just for glory but for job security. For Lewis, the formula is straightforward: build systems, build icons, and the rest will follow. On the age-old debate of whether athletes are born or made, Lewis is pragmatic. “Some people are genetically predisposed to do things more than others. That’s just the way it is. But it doesn’t really matter. There are smart people and people who struggle; tall and short; it’s the uniqueness of our world.”&nbsp;But his most powerful message is reserved for young athletes. “Two things,” he says. “If life was easy, everybody would be good at it. And second, I used to miss the parties, now I give them. You have to sacrifice to be who you want to be.”He recalls choosing the University of Houston despite its poor facilities at the time. “I knew what I wanted and was willing to sacrifice. My coach changed my technique 100%. It wasn’t easy. But I had the courage to stay long enough to see the benefit.”&nbsp;For him, success isn’t built on shortcuts — it’s built on vision, patience, and sacrifice. Despite his unmatched medal haul, when asked what he misses most from his competitive days, Lewis doesn’t mention records or podiums. “I miss practice,” he says. “In my 20s and 30s, there were eight of us training together. We’d hang out, ride motorcycles, camp. Now everyone’s scattered. I really miss that camaraderie.” It’s a reminder that even for legends, the heart of sport lies in the shared journey, not just the finish line.&nbsp;Carl Lewis’s reflections are more than nostalgia. They are a blueprint for a sporting culture built on accountability, infrastructure, science, and sacrifice. As India prepares for another edition of its marquee half marathon, his words echo beyond the track: greatness isn’t a moment, it’s a mindset — one built day after day, quietly, at home. The event, which kicks off on 12 October, 2025 from Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, will take runners past Delhi’s most iconic landmarks — from Lodhi Gardens to India Gate — offering a world-class racing experience that mirrors the city’s vibrancy. With Lewis fronting the 2025 edition, the event is set to celebrate endurance running while inspiring a deeper cultural shift in how India views sport.

Carl Lewis: If life was easy, everybody would be good at it

In the pantheon of sporting legends, few names command the same reverence as Carl Lewis — former American track and field athlete. Over the course of a glittering career that spanned four Olympic Games, Lewis amassed 9 Olympic gold medals and 8 World Championship titles — the most by any track and field athlete in modern Olympic history. Lewis broke the world record in Seoul 1988’s 100m final, soared 8.67 metres in long jump and anchored the US world record 4x100m relay team in Barcelona 1992, and capped his career with an unprecedented fourth consecutive long jump gold at Atlanta 1996, cementing his place as one of the greatest track and field athletes of all time. His performances transcended sport — whether it was matching Jesse Owens’ iconic four-gold feat at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, anchoring record-breaking relay teams, or leaping to an unprecedented fourth consecutive long jump gold at Atlanta 1996, Lewis didn’t just win; he redefined excellence. Yet behind the global icon who sprinted and soared to history lies a surprisingly simple truth. When asked to describe himself in one word, Carl Lewis chooses “Homebody.” “I like to be at home,” he said with a smile. “I come home every day. I’ve had someone cook for me since the mid-80s. After practice, I come home for dinner, take a nap, and that’s my life. I like being home.” This understated self-description sets the tone for a man whose extraordinary achievements were built not on constant spectacle but on routine, discipline, and a deeply grounded lifestyle. It is this champion’s mindset that Lewis brought to New Delhi as the International Event Ambassador for the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon (VDHM) 2025, a World Athletics Gold Label race that has grown into a cultural and sporting landmark in India. Also Read: BCCI planning BIG action against ACC chief Mohsin Naqvi for denying India Asia Cup trophy At a packed press conference in the capital, Lewis spoke passionately about how the marathon is about more than just competition. “Breaking barriers is at the very heart of what the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon represents,” he said. “What makes it unique is not just breaking barriers, but the cultural shift it inspires through sport. When amateurs run alongside Olympic champions, it shows how running can unite people from all walks of life. Every runner can say, ‘I ran with her, I ran with him,’ and that experience is truly inspiring.” When the conversation turns to doping, Lewis is characteristically forthright. India’s athletics community has been grappling with a surge in doping cases, and Lewis, who competed in a heavily scrutinised era, views it as both progress and challenge. “I think the numbers are going up because testing is getting better,” he explains. “But it’s concentrated in certain areas, not globally. We have to keep testing and create a sense of forever fear.” For him, accountability is the missing piece. “If someone tests positive, we shouldn’t just get rid of them and move on. We should go after them financially. If you can’t reimburse or pay a fine, maybe your career ends. That’s on you.” He also points to broader cultural shifts. “We live in a world where fake things are allowed to become important. That’s why conversations around ‘enhanced games’ even exist. It’s less about sports and more about culture now.” Lewis has watched the sport evolve dramatically since his prime. He readily acknowledges improvements in nutrition and technology, but he is concerned about the erosion of fundamental technique. “Nutrition and video technology have improved a lot,” he says. “But mechanics are worse. On Instagram, 95% of people teaching running are wrong. Thirty or forty years ago, there was accountability — the best people didn’t advertise; others advertised for them. Now anyone can give bad advice online.” He points to systemic issues, too, like the lack of qualified physical education teachers in the US and the trend of renaming poor techniques to make them sound acceptable. “Science doesn’t change. But people are ignoring it,” he says, almost like a coach urging a return to the basics. On India’s sporting ecosystem, Lewis is equally clear-eyed. “India has enough talent to be a power in sports,” he says firmly. “What’s missing is infrastructure. Once infrastructure and role models are in place, minds will change. You have to show people it can be done.” Also Read: Aryna Sabalenka marches Wuhan semi-finals, Coco Gauff makes light work of Laura Siegemund It’s a sentiment that resonates in a country where many young athletes pursue sports not just for glory but for job security. For Lewis, the formula is straightforward: build systems, build icons, and the rest will follow. On the age-old debate of whether athletes are born or made, Lewis is pragmatic. “Some people are genetically predisposed to do things more than others. That’s just the way it is. But it doesn’t really matter. There are smart people and people who struggle; tall and short; it’s the uniqueness of our world.” But his most powerful message is reserved for young athletes. “Two things,” he says. “If life was easy, everybody would be good at it. And second, I used to miss the parties, now I give them. You have to sacrifice to be who you want to be.” He recalls choosing the University of Houston despite its poor facilities at the time. “I knew what I wanted and was willing to sacrifice. My coach changed my technique 100%. It wasn’t easy. But I had the courage to stay long enough to see the benefit.” For him, success isn’t built on shortcuts — it’s built on vision, patience, and sacrifice. Despite his unmatched medal haul, when asked what he misses most from his competitive days, Lewis doesn’t mention records or podiums. “I miss practice,” he says. “In my 20s and 30s, there were eight of us training together. We’d hang out, ride motorcycles, camp. Now everyone’s scattered. I really miss that camaraderie.” It’s a reminder that even for legends, the heart of sport lies in the shared journey, not just the finish line. Carl Lewis’s reflections are more than nostalgia. They are a blueprint for a sporting culture built on accountability, infrastructure, science, and sacrifice. As India prepares for another edition of its marquee half marathon, his words echo beyond the track: greatness isn’t a moment, it’s a mindset — one built day after day, quietly, at home. The event, which kicks off on 12 October, 2025 from Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, will take runners past Delhi’s most iconic landmarks — from Lodhi Gardens to India Gate — offering a world-class racing experience that mirrors the city’s vibrancy. With Lewis fronting the 2025 edition, the event is set to celebrate endurance running while inspiring a deeper cultural shift in how India views sport.

Former American track and field athlete Carl Lewis reflects on his legacy, doping in sport, India’s athletic potential, cultural shifts, and the sacrifices needed for greatness

Carl Lewis: If life was easy, everybody would be good at it; legendary American track and field athlete says, 'I am a homebody'

When the world is asleep on a quiet Sunday morning, Mohsen Shahedi is already awake, pulling on his running gear in the dark. It’s 3 a.m.—his sacred hour. For most, this would seem like an odd ritual. For Shahedi, it’s a way of life. By the time dawn breaks, he’s often kilometres into a marathon, driven by a passion that has lasted more than two decades.But Shahedi is not your regular long-distance runner. As a Deputy Inspector General in the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), he oversees operations across India and abroad, leading teams that rush to the frontlines during floods, earthquakes, cyclones and other emergencies. Balancing this high-pressure leadership role with the grueling demands of marathon training is no easy task. Yet, the 55-year-old officer has managed to complete over 200 marathons, including ultra runs of 100 km and 200 km and is now gearing up for the upcoming Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon on Sunday (October 12). “Running is not just physical for me,” he says. “It is a discovery of self and the belief that nothing is impossible.”<h2>A Life-Changing Run in Kosovo</h2>Shahedi’s tryst with marathons began far away from home—in Kosovo in the year 2000. Then a young officer with the CRPF, he was posted as part of the Indian Special Police Unit on a United Nations mission. It was here that he was unexpectedly pushed into what would become a defining moment of his life.&nbsp;“The Danish battalion had a tradition of organising the 100 km Dancon Death March,” he recalls. “My commander, a Colonel, ordered me to participate and lead the Indian team. I had never run that distance before. It came as a surprise.”The course wound through the rugged Serbian mountains, far from the flat city tracks he was used to. Rain lashed the runners, washing away parts of the trail. He and his teammate, then-constable Sunil Kumar, had to navigate by map to find their way back onto the route. “I started tentatively,” he remembers, “because there were constant ups and downs. It was tough terrain.”

At the 94 km mark, Shahedi and Sunil made their move, overtaking French personnel to take the lead. Word travelled back to camp, and by the time he reached the final 200 metres, carrying the Indian tricolour, the entire battalion was waiting. “Those last 200 metres seemed unending,” he says with a smile. “But it was the most thrilling moment of my life. Life was never the same again.” He and his teammate finished first among 197 participants from 56 countries. That day, a marathon runner was born.<h2>Running Through Duty</h2>Back home, Shahedi continued his career with the CRPF and later moved to NDRF on deputation. His professional responsibilities only grew heavier. Yet, he never let go of his running. “It’s tough,” he admits. “It comes at a price—not relaxing when you can. But weekends are my time. Friday evening is my happiest moment because I know Saturday and Sunday are for running.”&nbsp;His weekday routine is packed with administrative meetings, operational planning, and coordinating disaster response across the country. So he fits in short aerobic sessions and yoga midweek to stay limber. Marathons, however, are always on weekends—mostly Sundays. “Initially it felt silly to wake up at 3 a.m. when the world was asleep. But the moment I put on my running gear, I became a different person. Once I start, nobody can stop me,” he says.&nbsp;This relentless dedication has taken him across India’s major running circuits. He has completed seven to eight Delhi marathons, eight to nine in Mumbai, and runs in Hyderabad, Kolkata, Bengaluru and more. Among his most memorable is the Ladakh Marathon, which he ran recently. “It’s not just about cold or heat—you can adjust to that. But in Ladakh, the challenge is the rarefied atmosphere. Breathing is difficult. That’s what makes it special.” Hyderabad, with its notorious flyovers, is another favourite. “They say it’s the marathon of flyovers—seven of them. As soon as you come down one, another uphill task awaits. That’s why each marathon is a different story.”<h2>Fitness as Leadership</h2>For Shahedi, fitness is not just personal—it’s professional leadership. During the COVID-19 pandemic, when the world was confined indoors, NDRF personnel were out in the field conducting awareness campaigns, evacuations, and relief operations. “In March 2020, I too caught COVID early on,” he recalls. “But after recovering, I knew that as a commander, I had to lead from the front. We didn’t have the option to work from home.” In that challenging year, Shahedi ran 23 half marathons, many within his residential premises on improvised tracks. He also spearheaded fitness initiatives within NDRF—monitoring BMI, organising fitness rescuer competitions, and even leading teams to the Goa Ironman event. “For every rescuer, physical and mental fitness was essential. It’s what keeps us sharp on the ground.”&nbsp;As a seasoned marathoner, Shahedi follows a disciplined regimen before each big race. Three to four days prior, he focuses on hydration and carbo-loading—fueling his body for the long haul. He eases his routine, does light exercises, and prioritises sleep. “But performance anxiety is always there,” he laughs. “No matter how many races I’ve run, the night before a marathon I can never sleep properly. So I make up for it in the days before.” He remembers one particular night before the Mumbai Marathon when he had a fever of 104°F. “I woke up, took a bath, and decided to run anyway. It turned out to be my best timing. Once you’ve started, everything else fades into the background. That’s the beauty of it.”&nbsp;Shahedi has witnessed India’s fitness culture change dramatically over the years. “When I started running at Nehru Park, parking was easy,” he says. “Now, on weekends, you struggle to find a spot. It’s wonderful to see so many young people taking to fitness, running, and playing multiple sports. That’s the way forward.” He sees this as a national necessity. “In the 1980 Moscow Olympics, Russia’s performance was seen as proof of their socio-economic model. That’s why initiatives like Fit India are so important. A fit nation is a progressive nation.”&nbsp;Even after 200 marathons, Shahedi has no plans of stopping. His immediate goal is the Khardungla Challenge in Ladakh, for which he has qualified. He dreams of participating in international events like the Comrades Marathon in South Africa. But above all, he wants to maintain his momentum. “It’s not about how many marathons I do next—it’s about staying the course,” he says.&nbsp;Perhaps the most poetic part of Shahedi’s journey is the mental state he enters when he runs. After years of practice, he says he has reached a “trance stage”. “This is a stage where I don’t notice people around me. I feel no pain, no agony—only pure joy,” he explains. For someone who started as a reluctant participant in a military run, his journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. His message to the younger generation is clear and powerful: “The virtues you learn in a marathon—fitness, rhythm, perseverance, never-say-die spirit—are the same virtues you need in life. Get the courage to start, do your bit, and keep fit. Only healthy and fit citizens can make a progressive and developed nation. Jai Hind!”

The marathon commander: How DIG Mohsen Shahedi runs for the nation

When the world is asleep on a quiet Sunday morning, Mohsen Shahedi is already awake, pulling on his running gear in the dark. It’s 3 a.m.—his sacred hour. For most, this would seem like an odd ritual. For Shahedi, it’s a way of life. By the time dawn breaks, he’s often kilometres into a marathon, driven by a passion that has lasted more than two decades. But Shahedi is not your regular long-distance runner. As a Deputy Inspector General in the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), he oversees operations across India and abroad, leading teams that rush to the frontlines during floods, earthquakes, cyclones and other emergencies. Balancing this high-pressure leadership role with the grueling demands of marathon training is no easy task. Yet, the 55-year-old officer has managed to complete over 200 marathons, including ultra runs of 100 km and 200 km and is now gearing up for the upcoming Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon on Sunday (October 12). “Running is not just physical for me,” he says. “It is a discovery of self and the belief that nothing is impossible.” A Life-Changing Run in Kosovo Shahedi’s tryst with marathons began far away from home—in Kosovo in the year 2000. Then a young officer with the CRPF, he was posted as part of the Indian Special Police Unit on a United Nations mission. It was here that he was unexpectedly pushed into what would become a defining moment of his life. “The Danish battalion had a tradition of organising the 100 km Dancon Death March,” he recalls. “My commander, a Colonel, ordered me to participate and lead the Indian team. I had never run that distance before. It came as a surprise.” The course wound through the rugged Serbian mountains, far from the flat city tracks he was used to. Rain lashed the runners, washing away parts of the trail. He and his teammate, then-constable Sunil Kumar, had to navigate by map to find their way back onto the route. “I started tentatively,” he remembers, “because there were constant ups and downs. It was tough terrain.”

DIG Mohsen Shahedi has completed 200+ marathons while leading NDRF operations, turning running into a journey of grit, discipline and self-discovery

The marathon commander: How DIG Mohsen Shahedi runs for the nation— On track and off it

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

As excitement builds for the 20th edition of the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon (VDHM), Procam International announced the launch of the exclusive VDHM Starts Club. This special initiative honours 38 remarkable runners who have completed the event’s challenging 21.097 km distance at least fifteen times.&nbsp;The VDHM Starts Club celebrates their unwavering commitment and the inspiring journeys these athletes have undertaken since the inaugural edition in 2005, marking them as enduring symbols of passion, perseverance, and the spirit of running. The Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, a prestigious World Athletics Gold Label race, has shattered barriers and transformed India from a spectator nation into a participative one. It has ignited a running revolution across North India, fueling the rise of clubs, events, and a vibrant fitness culture. The introduction of the VDHM Stars Club not only celebrates the extraordinary personal achievements of its members but also marks a milestone in the half-marathon community.&nbsp;Virat Bhushan, the Star runner who has participated in all 19 editions of the VDHM, said, “Making efforts on life, never giving up and realizing there is no finish line, running in the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon has been an integral part of my identity. It’s my way of connecting with the spirit of Delhi. Having run all editions, it’s an incredible feeling, and I’m ready to take on my 20th this October.”&nbsp;The Star club runner’s felicitation programme will be held at the Mirchi Get Active-VDHM Expo. Congratulating the exclusive club members, Vivek Singh, Joint Managing Director, Procam International, said, “We are proud to recognise the commitment of these 38 remarkable runners. Their achievements inspire not only us at the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, but also runners across Delhi and around the world to push their limits, strive for excellence, and remain committed to running. It is a wonderful way to stay fit and inspired.”&nbsp;The landmark 20th edition of the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon is scheduled to take place on Sunday, October 12th, 2025, and will be flagged off from Delhi’s iconic Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.

20 years, 38 stars: VDHM celebrates its most loyal runners with ‘Stars Club’

As excitement builds for the 20th edition of the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon (VDHM), Procam International announced the launch of the exclusive VDHM Starts Club. This special initiative honours 38 remarkable runners who have completed the event’s challenging 21.097 km distance at least fifteen times. The VDHM Starts Club celebrates their unwavering commitment and the inspiring journeys these athletes have undertaken since the inaugural edition in 2005, marking them as enduring symbols of passion, perseverance, and the spirit of running. The Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, a prestigious World Athletics Gold Label race, has shattered barriers and transformed India from a spectator nation into a participative one. It has ignited a running revolution across North India, fueling the rise of clubs, events, and a vibrant fitness culture. The introduction of the VDHM Stars Club not only celebrates the extraordinary personal achievements of its members but also marks a milestone in the half-marathon community. Virat Bhushan, the Star runner who has participated in all 19 editions of the VDHM, said, “Making efforts on life, never giving up and realizing there is no finish line, running in the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon has been an integral part of my identity. It’s my way of connecting with the spirit of Delhi. Having run all editions, it’s an incredible feeling, and I’m ready to take on my 20th this October.” The Star club runner’s felicitation programme will be held at the Mirchi Get Active-VDHM Expo. Congratulating the exclusive club members, Vivek Singh, Joint Managing Director, Procam International, said, “We are proud to recognise the commitment of these 38 remarkable runners. Their achievements inspire not only us at the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, but also runners across Delhi and around the world to push their limits, strive for excellence, and remain committed to running. It is a wonderful way to stay fit and inspired.” The landmark 20th edition of the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon is scheduled to take place on Sunday, October 12th, 2025, and will be flagged off from Delhi’s iconic Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.

The VDHM Starts Club celebrates their unwavering commitment and the inspiring journeys these athletes have undertaken since the inaugural edition in 2005, marking them as enduring symbols of passion, perseverance, and the spirit of running

Double Olympic medallist and PUMA athlete PR Sreejesh, at the 20th Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon Registration Launch event, praised Vedanta and PUMA’s commitment to grassroots athletes, saying, “I always say that grassroots development begins at home, and when parents encourage kids to run, to play, and to dream, it leads to development.”&nbsp;Encouraging citizens to join the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, PUMA athlete Sreejesh also spoke about the spirit he observes during Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon each year and how participants, just like him, break barriers and take part in large numbers. "I broke my first barrier when I chose hockey in a football-loving state like Kerala, and every step since then has been about challenging myself, not the world," he said.&nbsp;"That’s the same spirit I see in the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, and that’s why I value PUMA—not just as a brand, but as a partner that truly supports athletes from the ground up and treats them like family."To celebrate the 20th edition, PUMA, the Sports Goods Partner, will present official Race Day Tees to all registered Half Marathon and 10K participants for the first time.&nbsp;Registration is now open for all race categories – Half Marathon, Open 10K, Great Delhi Run, Senior Citizens’ Run, and Champions with Disability and will close at 11:59 pm on Friday, September 19, 2025, or earlier if slots are filled. Virtual Run registrations for the Half Marathon, Open 10K, and Great Delhi Run are also open via the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon App until 11:59 pm on Monday, October 6, 2025.&nbsp;The landmark 20th edition of the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, a World Athletics Gold Label Race, is scheduled to take place on Sunday, October 12th, 2025, and will be flagged off from Delhi’s iconic Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.

Double Olympic Medallist PR Sreejesh urges citizens to join VDHM, says ‘development begins at home’

Double Olympic medallist and PUMA athlete PR Sreejesh, at the 20th Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon Registration Launch event, praised Vedanta and PUMA’s commitment to grassroots athletes, saying, “I always say that grassroots development begins at home, and when parents encourage kids to run, to play, and to dream, it leads to development.” Encouraging citizens to join the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, PUMA athlete Sreejesh also spoke about the spirit he observes during Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon each year and how participants, just like him, break barriers and take part in large numbers. "I broke my first barrier when I chose hockey in a football-loving state like Kerala, and every step since then has been about challenging myself, not the world," he said. "That’s the same spirit I see in the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, and that’s why I value PUMA—not just as a brand, but as a partner that truly supports athletes from the ground up and treats them like family." To celebrate the 20th edition, PUMA, the Sports Goods Partner, will present official Race Day Tees to all registered Half Marathon and 10K participants for the first time. Registration is now open for all race categories – Half Marathon, Open 10K, Great Delhi Run, Senior Citizens’ Run, and Champions with Disability and will close at 11:59 pm on Friday, September 19, 2025, or earlier if slots are filled. Virtual Run registrations for the Half Marathon, Open 10K, and Great Delhi Run are also open via the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon App until 11:59 pm on Monday, October 6, 2025. The landmark 20th edition of the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, a World Athletics Gold Label Race, is scheduled to take place on Sunday, October 12th, 2025, and will be flagged off from Delhi’s iconic Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.

The landmark 20th edition of the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, a World Athletics Gold Label Race, is scheduled to take place on Sunday, October 12th, 2025