Manipal, Feb 09: The 8th edition of the Manipal Marathon concluded successfully at KMC Greens, Manipal, on 8th February 2026, organized by Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence and Deemed to be University. Recognized as one of India’s largest student-led community fitness events, the marathon drew over 20,000 participants, including 100+ international athletes, competing across categories for a prize pool exceeding ₹25 lakhs.

Themed “Miles for a Greener Tomorrow  Run for a Sustainable Future”, this edition reinforced MAHE’s commitment to environmental stewardship. The event aligned with ongoing sustainability initiatives, including tree plantation, biodiversity conservation, solar energy utilization, waste management, rainwater harvesting, and sustainable mobility, extending its impact beyond campus into the broader community.

Addressing the enthusiastic crowd, Dr H S Ballal, Pro Chancellor, MAHE, remarked,

“The overwhelming response to the 8th edition of the Manipal Marathon demonstrates MAHE’s vision of fostering holistic development beyond academics. By bringing together over 20,000 runners, we are promoting fitness, wellness, environmental stewardship, and community engagement. What began as a student initiative has grown into one of India’s largest community fitness events, attracting participation from over 10 countries.”

Over 100 international athletes participated, representing countries such as Dubai, England, Ethiopia, Germany, Kenya, Japan, Malaysia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and the USA, strengthening the marathon’s global profile. The scenic beachside route for the 42K runners provided a memorable experience, while the newly introduced 10K route, including the Manipal Hospice Respite Centre (MHRC), emphasized the marathon’s enduring focus on social impact.

The event was graced by dignitaries, including Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M D Venkatesh, VSM (Retd.), Vice Chancellor, along with Dr Sharath Rao, Pro Vice Chancellor (Health Sciences), Dr. Dilip G. Naik, Pro Vice Chancellor (Mangalore Campus), Dr Anand Venugopal, COO Operations, Dr Gopalakrishna Prabhu, Vice Chancellor, Sikkim Manipal University, and other MAHE officials.

In line with MAHE’s focus on equity and inclusivity, the marathon featured dedicated categories for differently-abled and visually challenged runners, with age-wise classification, receiving enthusiastic participation.

MAHE expressed its gratitude to the title sponsors including ICICI Bank, UNEXT, Deloitte, BOBCARD, and all partners whose support contributed to the success of Manipal Marathon 2026.

The names of winners across various categories are:

42K Fastest Male

1 Sathish Kumar

2 Sachin Poojari

3 Desye Endalew

42 Fastest Female

1 Senait Kefelegn Lesharge

2 Yenealem Ayano Buli

3 Neeti Kriplani

21K Fastest Male

1 Rijwan Ali

2 Shashwath Rajesh Poojary

3 Nalinakshan Kizhakkedath

21K Fastest Female

1 Bhawana Negi

2 Nandini G

3 Rutuja Patil

10K Fastest Male

1 Shivanand Chigari

2 Shreedhara SN

3 Mubarak R Dantali

10K Fastest Female

1 Shahin S Dharwad

2 Shreya Moodekallu

3 Chaithra TP

5K Fastest Male

1 Nagaraj Divate

2 Ranga

3 Manjunath Belurappanavar

5K Fastest Female

1 Nagini Nagini

2 HV Deeksha

3 Rekha B.P. Basappa Piroji

The event concluded with a vibrant post-run carnival by fitness enthusiasts and students, featuring music and interactive fitness and Zumba sessions to celebrate the Manipal Marathon.