First-ever race management programme in India

Held alongside the action-packed NMDC Hyderabad Marathon Race Weekend from 29-31 August 2026 the three-day event brought together over 40 key race organisers, race directors, and athletic movement leaders from across the country, Thailand & Nepal. Co-hosted by Hyderabad Marathon and AIMS, the initiative provided unprecedented access to global best practices in endurance event organisation.

Delegates received hands-on exposure to the live infrastructure of the NMDC Hyderabad Marathon, blending direct operational field visits with strategic discourse. At the Hitex Exhibition Grounds, participants surveyed the NMDC Sports Expo to analyze race kit distribution workflows, runner interaction zones, and commercial stall engagements. Start line operations were evaluated at People’s Plaza, where attendees analyzed critical entry point management, VIP movement protocols, runner corral structuring, and flag-off logistics. The field visits concluded at Gachibowli Stadium, where focus shifted to finish area management including medical deployments, recovery area logistics, refreshment points, elite runner handling, and post-race baggage systems.

Fostering strong peer connections was central to the gathering. On Sunday 30 August race organisers gathered for an exclusive networking dinner. The evening provided a relaxed atmosphere for directors and movement leaders from across India to exchange personal insights, discuss regional challenges, and build collaborative partnerships aimed at strengthening the country’s broader running ecosystem.

A highlight of the programme took place during the Monday session on 31 August where renowned global figures shared operational frameworks and strategic wisdom. Vivek B. Singh, Joint Managing Director of Procam India, outlined the growth trajectory of road running across India alongside its evolving cultural and economic footprint. Mike Nishi, Race Director of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon, detailed comprehensive strategies for fan engagement, volunteer coordination, and creating memorable participant experiences. Rut Jiroajvanichakorn from Bangsaen, Thailand, presented actionable models for partnering effectively with municipal and civic authorities during large-scale city events. Guiding attendees through international standards, World Athletics Representative and former Stockholm Marathon Race Director Ulf Saletti detailed regulatory compliance, safety protocols and global frameworks.

The event concluded with an interactive workshop where focus groups tackled real-world endurance challenges and presented solutions directly for critique. Key outcomes focused on standardising safety and technical governance to align with international World Athletics and AIMS standards across Indian road races. Beyond establishing upgraded systems for participant journeys and crowd control, the gathering strengthened a national coalition of race management professionals dedicated to elevating event quality across the region. Every delegate received a formal Certificate of Participation, setting a clear roadmap for continuous education and future race evaluation.