Athletes, this is for you! The sacred coastal city of Puri, Odisha, is all set to host India’s first-ever road-plus-sand marathon on December 13, 2026. Running enthusiasts and elite athletes can expect to win big as the organisers have announced a prize pool of ₹1 crore! Here’s everything you need to know.
Puri To Host India’s 1st Road-Plus-Sand Marathon
Puri is set to host the OMC Puri Coastal Marathon on December 13, 2026, and all running enthusiasts and elite athletes are welcome to participate. According to Prameya News, a total prize pool of ₹1 crore has been announced for this marathon, which is being called India’s first-ever road-plus-sand marathon. Registrations will close on November 14, so it is recommended that you apply as soon as possible.
Runners can choose from four race categories: 42K, 21K, 10K and 5K. These categories cater not just to expert marathoners and competitive athletes but also to fitness enthusiasts and first-time participants. The marathon aims to make this experience big and bring together elite Indian and international runners for the event.
Also Read: Puri’s Famous Gundicha Temple Reopens For Devotees After 6 Years; Check Entry Fee & Timings
Don’t Miss The Exclusive 5K Beach Run
According to Prameya News, the key attraction of the event is the exclusive 5K beach run on a stretch across the Nuanai River and a route through the coastal landscape surrounding the Blackbuck Sanctuary. This sounds amazing, right? The registration package for this sand-road marathon will include a dry-fit T-shirt, finisher medal, breakfast, on-course hydration, access to Zumba sessions and a goodie bag full of nutritional treats.
This one-of-a-kind experience is not just about running but will also give participants a chance to experience Puri’s culture and art and explore its natural beauty. In short, it combines sports with Puri’s spiritual and natural heritage to boost tourism.
The event is already getting a lot of support from celebrities like Ajay Devgn and Rajkummar Rao, and fitness ambassadors like Milind Soman and Ankita Konwar.
Also Read: Odisha’s Similipal Tiger Reserve Now Has A Dedicated Cafe To Sip Coffee, Read & Relax
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Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/Alliance Images (Representative Image)
FAQs
Is Puri hosting a sand-road marathon?
Yes, Puri in Odisha will host the OMC Puri Coastal Marathon on December 13, 2026.
What is a sand-road marathon?
A sand-road marathon is a running event where participants run on both regular roads and sandy stretches.
Where is Puri located?
Puri is a coastal city in Odisha, India. The city is famous for the Lord Jagannath Temple and its beaches.
