#India #Udaipur #Hindustan Zinc #Vedanta #Udaipur Marathon

A Celebration of Running in Udaipur

The 3rd edition of the Vedanta Zinc City Half Marathon, organized by Hindustan Zinc Limited, took place on September 8, 2026, in the scenic city of Udaipur, India. This year, the marathon attracted an unprecedented number of participants, totaling 9,700 runners, marking a significant increase of nearly 45% from the previous edition. Runners hailed from 27 different states across India, as well as from several countries, including the United States, Sweden, Italy, Japan, Indonesia, and Kenya.

Udaipur, often referred to as Zinc City, boasts a rich history that dates back thousands of years, deeply intertwined with zinc production. The marathon serves not only as a sporting event but also as a celebration of this heritage that Hindustan Zinc continues to uphold. CEO Amarendu Prakash expressed his excitement, noting the significance of seeing so many runners come together, stating, "This powerful turnout reflects the growth of our marathon and our ambition for it to become one of the country's most sought-after running experiences."

The marathon was set against the breathtaking backdrop of Fateh Sagar Lake and the Aravalli ranges, enhancing the allure of the event. In addition, the participants also supported the #RunForZeroHunger initiative, reinforcing the social responsibility aspect of the marathon. The races included a 21.097 km Half Marathon, 10 km, and 5 km categories, accommodating a range of participants from seasoned athletes to those running their first races, including senior citizens, women-led fitness groups, and specially-abled individuals.

Winners of the Race
The competition was fierce, with Mukesh Kumar clinching the title in the men's Half Marathon category with an impressive time of 1:08:47. Meanwhile, Pooja topped the women's field, finishing in 1:26:09. The 10 km race saw Tehender winning the men’s competition with a time of 32:01, while Kumari Parru was crowned the women’s winner in 36:49. Every finisher was honored with a unique Zinc Finisher Medal, crafted from Hindustan Zinc’s 99.99% pure zinc, a tangible reminder of their achievement.

More than just a race, the Vedanta Zinc City Half Marathon aims to position Udaipur as a prominent sports tourism destination. Its growing popularity on the national and international scale is attracting more visitors, contributing to the local economy and promoting a healthy lifestyle within the community. The enthusiastic participation from various cities, such as Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Delhi, and Gurugram, further signifies the marathon's significance in fostering a sense of community and health awareness among its citizens.

Ultimately, the Vedanta Zinc City Half Marathon not only celebrates running but also champions Udaipur's legacy and the global impact of zinc production. As it continues to grow and evolve, the marathon aspires to share the spirit of Zinc City with the world, bringing together individuals from all walks of life to partake in this exhilarating experience. Hindustan Zinc remains committed to showcasing the beauty of Udaipur, its historical importance, and the inherent community spirit through such impactful events.

In conclusion, the event stands as a testament not only to the rich heritage of zinc in Udaipur but also to the determination and camaraderie found within its vibrant running community. With continued support and growth, this marathon could very well become a jewel in India's illustrious sporting calendar for years to come.