Team Herald
[email protected]
VASCO: The 15th edition of the Goa River Marathon (GRM) will be held on December 14, at the Chicalim ground, marking a major milestone for one of Goa’s most awaited sporting events.
Speaking at a press conference, Nitin Bandekar of the Vasco Sports Club, organiser of the event, said, “The marathon’s 15-year journey has been possible thanks to the continued support of sponsors, the Goan running community and participants from across the world.”
“This year’s Goa River Marathon will see runners from across India and abroad. We’ve already crossed 2,500 registrations and are hopeful of touching 7,500,” he said, extending an open invitation to the public to join and cheer the runners.
Bandekar announced the return of popular pre and post-race events, including the ‘Pasta Party’ on the eve of the marathon and a ‘Recovery Rave’ at Jubilant in Sancoale on race-day evening. “The Goa Marathon doesn’t end at the ground. It continues beyond, at 4 pm,” he added.
The event has seen a steady rise in local participation – from just 5 per cent Goan runners in the first year to 45 per cent in the men’s category and 28 per cent in the women’s category today. Last year, the marathon drew 4,500 participants, and the numbers are expected to increase significantly this year.
SKF Managing Director and title sponsor Rolando Costa, who has supported the marathon for many years, said the event aligns closely with SKF’s philosophy.
“Our bearings fight friction and encourage movement and marathons are about encouraging movement and community,” Costa said. “Last year, I ran the 5k, but this year, my commitment is to run the 10k,” he added with a smile.
He also announced that the prize money has been increased to Rs 8 lakh across all categories, up from Rs 7 lakh last year.
Costa praised the organisers for expanding the event’s community engagement through activities like the Pasta Party and Recovery Rave, noting that such initiatives help strengthen the marathon’s spirit.
Highlighting the event’s growing international stature, organisers revealed that the Goa River Marathon has retained its Association of International Marathons accreditation, and from this year, participants’ timings will be included in the World Major Rankings, giving runners better access to global events such as Boston, New York, and Chicago.
The marathon will feature three main categories – the Full Marathon (42 km), Half Marathon (21 km) and 10 km run, each with prizes for top finishers.
The event’s official medical partner, Victor Hospital, reaffirmed its long-standing association with GRM. Roana Costa from Victor Hospital said, “We are proud to support Goa’s largest marathon once again. Our team will be on standby throughout the race to ensure every runner’s safety. Events like these show that healthcare isn’t confined to hospital walls -it extends to every step we take toward a healthy community.”
Registrations for the December 14 race have been opened and runners can register at www.skfgoarivermarathon.com.
