5 reasons why you shouldn't miss the Kolkata Marathon

One of the biggest running events in the country, the SREI Kolkata marathon, is all set for a flying start tomorrow (February 8). Fitness and running enthusiasts from not only across the city and its periphery, but also various other cities have already reached the city of Joy by now, waiting for their chance to cross the finish line with pride. With just one day to go for the 8th edition of the event, Sportskeeda gives you 5 compelling reasons to not miss it.

#1 Indian talent

Indian talent will be showcased at the event

This event is the only one that exclusively promotes Indian athletes in it's races. With such an encouraging policy, it is a breath of fresh air to see several Indian professionals showing their skill, at the event

Kolkata Marathon is a great opportunity to be in the presence of revered Indian talent in the running discipline. In the last edition, the main races were won by Services runner Satya Prakash and Railways' Sudha SIngh, both of whom have won many prestigious events earlier.

#2 High standards

Timing chips will be provided to the runners

For the very first time, the Kolkata marathon will be providing timing chips to the participants, making the marathon even more professional. The chips will be made available to the participants of the Main marathon for Men (42.195 km) and the 15 km races for both Men and Women.

These chips will efficiently track the timing of each runner right from the start line to the finish. The marathon is getting close to becoming one of the marquee events on the running calendar.

#3 Attractive prizes

The prize of the women’s event has increased substantially

This time, the total prize money of the entire event is valued at Rs 10 lakhs, higher than most other marathons in the country. The event also promotes the participation of women in sports by offering a prize money only to the winner of the Women’s category in the 15 km race.

This time, the winner of the Main race is set to receive Rs 3,20,000 while the winner of the 15 km Women's race will get Rs 1,20,000.

#4 Not too niche

The Marathon is not just restricted to the professionals

With the Fun Run category (5 km), the event ensures that even amateurs and other groups who wish to participate simply for the experience of the electric atmosphere are not disappointed. The event is not unapproachable for people from all walks of life, who wish to be a part of something iconic in their beloved city.

The bonding and camaraderie among the people of Kolkata is visible during the run, with several people utilising the ocassion to raise slogans, wear costumes and hold placards for various causes.

#5 10-year anniversary

This is the marathon’s 10^th anniversary

The SREI Kolkata Marathon, which is the only official marathon of the city first began in the year 2005. It was exactly 10 years ago that this spectacular event had it's humble beginnings and it has grown, over the years and become a truly massive event. Encouraging and imbibing the spirit of fitness among the people of Kolkata.

This is the eight edition of the run and it is expected to on a grander scale than ever before, with an anticipated turn-out of around 8000.

#6 Bonus reason!

Celebrities such as Raima Sen will also be at the event

With Kolkata all set to become the first Wifi enable metro, it only makes sense to be in the heart of all the action. One could live tweet their experience and post selfies effortlessly right from the venue.

Another attraction is the presence of celebrities from the sports and entertainment fields like Jisshu Sengupta, Parambrata Chatterjee, Raima Sen, Sayantika Banerjee, Payel Sarkar, Abir Chatterjee and Manoj Tewary.

So what are you waiting for? Head for the Kolkata marathon now!