JBG Satara Hill Half Marathon 2025: A Rain-Soaked Yet Record-Breaking Celebration of Running
(source : ANI) ( Photo Credit : ani)
Rains Couldn’t Stop the Thrill: 8,500 Runners Conquer JBG Satara Hill Half Marathon
In the heart of Maharashtra’s Satara district, heavy rains poured down, but they couldn’t dim the excitement of the 14th JBG Satara Hill Half Marathon. Over 8,500 runners laced up their shoes and braved the weather on Sunday morning, turning the event into one of India’s most unforgettable race days. Powered by Mala Fruit Products, this iconic half marathon once again showcased stunning hill views, tough challenges, and a strong sense of community.
Crowds cheered from the sidelines as volunteers stood firm in the downpour. Runners pushed through the muddy paths and steep climbs, proving why the Satara Hill Half Marathon ranks among the world’s toughest and most scenic races. As the sun finally peeked out, the energy in the air was electric, making it a true celebration of fitness and grit.
Charity Runs Deep: Supporting 2,000 Kids
What made this edition even more special was the charity drive. The event raised funds to help 2,000 children from over eight schools in Satara and nearby areas. Organizers donated sports gear like footballs, basketballs, chess sets, and carrom boards, bringing fun and fitness right into classrooms. It’s heartwarming to see how this marathon goes beyond the finish line to build healthier futures for young kids.
Expo Buzz Kicks Off the Action
The fun started early with the JBG SHHM Fitness Expo, organized by the Punit Balan Group. Held two days before the race, it drew more than 30,000 visitors and featured over 50 brands showcasing running gear, nutrition tips, and wellness vibes. Smt. Vedantikaraje Bhonsle, wife of Maharashtra’s PWD Minister Shrimant Ch. Shivendrasinharaje Bhonsle, kicked things off with the inauguration. Runners and fitness fans mingled, building hype for the big day.
Live Streaming Makes History
For the first time in India, a stand-alone half marathon went fully live on digital platforms. Fancode and Zee24Taas streamed the entire JBG Satara Hill Half Marathon, letting fans across the country watch the action in real-time. This milestone added to the event’s legacy—it’s already a three-time Guinness World Record holder and now boasts the largest field of runners ever for a hill half marathon in India.
Top Finishers Shine in Fierce Competition
The race delivered edge-of-your-seat moments at the front. In the men’s open category, Ankush Laxman Hakke crossed the line first in 1:10:08, followed by Lovepreet Singh (1:11:06) and Dharmender D (1:12:03). The women’s open category saw Sakshi Sanjay Jadyal lead with 1:29:35, chased by Rutuja Vijay Patil (1:30:52) and Sonali Dhondiram Desai (1:33:42).
Over 600 runners smashed the two-hour mark and grabbed gold medals. Pacers did a stellar job guiding groups through the humid aftermath of the rain, helping everyone stay on track.
What Organizers and Leaders Are Saying
Dr. Sandeep Kate, founder and chief believer of the event, shared his excitement: "This edition highlighted our community’s unbreakable spirit. The rains didn’t faze anyone, and the charity success adds real purpose to the marathon."
Satara Collector Shri Santosh Patil added, "Satara is now the marathon capital of India, and this year’s success cements that spot."
Even Satara SP Shri Tushar Doshi joined the run, saying, "This has turned into a massive fitness movement. Running with thousands, including police from across Maharashtra, felt incredible."
Title sponsor Gaurav Jajodia, MD of Jai Balaji Group, beamed with pride: "Seeing 8,500 runners under our banner is huge. We love backing events that bring communities together."
Hussain Mala, Director at Mala Fruit Products (the powering sponsor), noted, "Partnering for the second year feels great. This marathon matches our brand’s fresh, passionate energy."
Punit Balan, MD of Punit Balan Group and Manikchand Oxyrich, highlighted, "Our expo and VIP lounge made the weekend even better for everyone involved."
Looking ahead to 2025, Race Director Dr. Avinash Shinde emphasized safety: "We focused on runner experience with new systems, practice runs, and top-notch medical support. Pacers played a key role in helping hundreds hit their goals."
President Ar. Upendra Pandit praised the team: "From registrations to the finish, this was remarkable—thanks to Satara’s people and volunteers."
Vice President Prof. Vishal Dhane said, "The trust from participants and partners shows how far we’ve come." Secretary Mr. Shailesh Dhawalikar added, "Detailed planning and training runs inspired everyone to tackle those hills."
Medical Director Dr. Prataprao Gole assured, "Our teams, ambulances, and hospitals ensured zero incidents and quick help. Safety always comes first."
Big Names and Supporters Join the Fun
The event drew heavyweights like Guardian Minister Shri Shambhuraje Desai, Sportiz founder Nishant Maheshwari, and Zee24Taas’ Dolly Dsouza, who ran the race herself. Others included Pudhari’s Chief Editor Harish Patne, Zandu reps Ganesh Bhagwat and Raj Agnihotri, and India Cares Foundation’s Meena Dave. Former race directors and the Satara Runners Foundation team, like Adv Kamlesh Pisal and Dr. Chandrashekhar Gorpade, worked tirelessly behind the scenes.
Why Satara Loves Its Marathon Magic
From rain-drenched streets to the lively expo, the 14th JBG Satara Hill Half Marathon blended competition, charity, and community spirit. It’s no wonder Satara has become India’s go-to spot for distance running fans. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just inspired to start, events like this show the power of lacing up and hitting the hills.
For more on the JBG Satara Hill Half Marathon, check out www.runsatara.com.
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