The Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata is set to make history when it is flagged off on December 15, 2024, marking the first-ever World Athletics Gold Label 25K race in the world. The event, taking place on the iconic Red Road in Kolkata, will see athletes from around the globe participate in this prestigious race, with football legend Sol Campbell and cricketing great Jhulan Goswami headlining the event.
This year’s Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata promises to be a landmark occasion, with the race becoming the first 25K Gold Label race to be recognized by World Athletics. The announcement was made amidst the grandeur of the Victoria Memorial, with its majestic domes and turrets forming the backdrop to the countdown of this monumental event. Running has rapidly become one of the fastest-growing sports in India, and the Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata has played a major role in this transformation.
With registrations now in full swing, the event is already receiving an overwhelming response from runners across the country and internationally. The 10K category has already reached its capacity, underscoring the growing popularity of running as a fitness activity in India. Meanwhile, registration for the feature 25K race, as well as the Ananda Run, Senior Citizen Run, and Champions with Disability categories, remains open until November 29, 2024, or until all slots are filled.
Chanakya Chaudhary, Vice President of Corporate Services at Tata Steel, expressed his excitement about the event's growing stature. "The Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata, now also a prestigious World Athletics Gold Label Race, is a red-letter day for athletes worldwide. It’s a day when participants, organizers, and the community come together to celebrate the spirit of fitness, strength, and resilience," he said. He also noted that this event is another step in Tata Steel’s commitment to promoting sports and fitness across India.
Brigadier AK Das, Deputy General Officer Commanding, Bengal Sub Area, also spoke of his pride in being part of this historic moment, with the event coinciding with Vijay Diwas, the day that commemorates India's victory in the 1971 war. He emphasized that the Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata is a wonderful initiative that brings together people from different walks of life to celebrate health and fitness.
Jhulan Goswami, who has been named Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata Ratna, shared her excitement about being part of the event and witnessing its rapid growth. "It is wonderful to see that the Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata has grown to become the world’s first 25K Gold Label race, and I am thrilled to be part of this historic occasion," she said. "I encourage all fitness enthusiasts, their families, and friends to join me on race day and participate in this incredible event."
Vivek Singh, Joint Managing Director of Procam International, the event organizers, echoed these sentiments, noting the growing popularity of running in West Bengal and the quick filling of categories. "We are proud to host the first-ever World Athletics Gold Label 25K in Kolkata, and we promise an unparalleled running experience with a host of international and national athletes competing in this prestigious event."
The Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata is set to be an extraordinary occasion, bringing together a global community of runners, elite athletes, and fitness enthusiasts. With a total prize pool of USD 142,214 and a stellar lineup of international athletes, the event is poised to become a landmark in India’s sporting calendar. Whether you’re an elite athlete or a casual runner, this race promises to be an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss the chance to be part of history and register now for the 2024 edition!
