VISAKHAPATNAM: The Visakhapatnam coastline turned into a sea of blue on Sunday as thousands of runners gathered along RK Beach for the 10th edition of the Vizag Navy Marathon, organised by the Indian Navy as part of the Navy Day 2025 celebrations.
With over 17,000 participants, including runners from 17 foreign countries, the event marked its biggest edition so far, reaffirming its place as one of the largest sporting events in the country.
The marathon featured four race categories, including the 42-km full marathon named the Carrier Run, 21-km half marathon named the Submarine Run, 10-km run named the Aircraft Run, and 5-km run named Frigate Run, drawing elite athletes, amateur runners and fitness enthusiasts alike.
The full marathon and prize distribution ceremony were presided over by Vice Admiral Sanjay Bhalla, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command. Priya Bhalla, President, NWWA (Eastern Region), flagged off the half marathon and the Sankalp Run, while the 10-km and 5-km runs were flagged off by District Collector MN Harendhira Prasad and Commissioner of Police Shankha Brata Bagchi respectively.
The event was marked by smooth organisation, and strong support from the district administration, city police, volunteers and local residents. Hydration points, medical facilities and safety arrangements were set up along the route, ensuring a comfortable experience for runners. Many participants spoke about the positive atmosphere along the course.
“The energy from fellow runners, and the encouragement from volunteers made the run enjoyable despite the physical challenge,” said a half marathon participant.
Another runner noted that the coastal route and early morning setting added to the experience, saying, “Running along the sea with so many athletes around was motivating.” One of the distinctive features of the Vizag Navy Marathon that sets itself different from the others is the community-driven initiative led by organising team from the ENC.
Through a WhatsApp community titled Fitness World, the team regularly shared training tips, nutrition guidance, injury-prevention advice, and race-day strategies tailored to different race categories.
They also encouraged runners to share their personal fitness journeys, creating a sense of community and motivation among the nearly 3,000 members on the channel.
The marathon offered prize money exceeding Rs 10 lakh and provided insurance cover to all participants. Congratulating the runners and organisers, Vice Admiral Sanjay Bhalla appreciated the collective effort of all stakeholders.