Souvik Saha
The vibrant city of Kolkata is gearing up for one of India’s premier running festivals, the Tata Steel Kolkata 25K, scheduled for Sunday, December 17. The countdown celebrations commenced at the majestic Victoria Memorial, setting the stage for a thrilling event that will take participants on a scenic route encompassing iconic landmarks.
The Tata Steel Kolkata 25K, recognized with the World Athletics Elite Label Road Race and the only AIMS-accredited 25K course, promises to be a spectacle. The meticulously crafted course will traverse through some of the city’s cultural gems, including Eden Gardens, Victoria Memorial, Park Street, Vidya Sagar Setu, James Prinsep Ghat, and Fort Williams Golf, with the start and finish at the historic Red Road.
Registrations for this grand event continue to pour in, with the feature race of 25K, 10K, and the Silvers’ Run already oversubscribed. However, running enthusiasts still have a chance to secure their spots for the Ananda Run and Champions with Disability until November 30, IST 11:59 p.m., or until available slots are filled.
The eighth edition of the Tata Steel Kolkata 25K is set to attract a diverse range of participants, from world-class athletes to fitness enthusiasts and amateurs. Adding to the excitement, the event will be graced by the presence of World Champion Hurdler and International Event Ambassador Colin Jackson, along with sporting icons Ratnas Jhulan Goswami and Koushani Mukherjee.
Expressing his thoughts on the event, Major General H. Dharmarajan, General Officer Commanding-Bengal Sub Area, Indian Army, stated, “It is a huge moment and honor for me to be present here. To have this sort of a race being conducted in the city of joy is itself a huge success.”
Tata Steel, the driving force behind the event, is thrilled about the upcoming spectacle. Chanakya Chaudhary, Vice President, Corporate Services, Tata Steel, expressed his excitement, stating, “It is not just a race; it’s a testament to the indomitable spirit of Kolkata.”
IDFC FIRST Bank, the exclusive Associate Sponsor for the second consecutive year, sees this partnership as a way to connect with the community. Naarayan TV, CMO, IDFC FIRST Bank, said, “We believe that this partnership is a wonderful approach to understand our customers and connect with them on the ground.”
Samarendra Kumar, Director, NCSM and Victoria Memorial Hall, Ministry of Culture, Govt of India, highlighted the significance of the venue, saying, “This venue proposes well-being and good health. I am very much privileged for being a partner here and to host this wonderful event.”
As the city eagerly anticipates the Tata Steel Kolkata 25K, participants and spectators alike are gearing up for an unforgettable celebration of athleticism, community, and the indomitable spirit of Kolkata.
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