History, Records and Pride at Stake as International Elite Runners Arrive to Participate in the Landmark 20th Edition of the Tata Mumbai Marathon

In the global running community, any race held for 20 or more years has a significant place in history. The Tata Mumbai Marathon, first held in 2004, is celebrating its twentieth edition this Sunday (19 Jan).

A World Athletics Gold Label Road Race, the Tata Mumbai Marathon has served as a memorable platform for some globally acclaimed commence their success stories.

Incidentally, South African Hendrik Ramaala, winner of the inaugural edition here in 2004, went on to win the popular New Yark marathon later that year. The race has also helped many athletes to qualify for the World championships and Olympic Games on several occasions.

This Sunday’s race will witness last year’s champions from Ethiopia, Lemi Berhanu and Aberash Minsewo, trying to emulate their 2024 wins again. Interestingly, Berhanu will try an unprecedented hat trick this year. If successful, it will be a first in the race’s history.

Lemi Berhanu who is eyeing a historic hat-trick this year is ready to go, ‘My preparation for the Mumbai Marathon has been excellent, especially after Beijing. I’ve been focused on training and am aiming for my third win this Sunday.

‘I have good experience with this course, and I believe my preparation gives me an advantage. I always listen to my coach and manager, following their program without deviation. Their guidance and my patience have been key to my progress. I’ve waited a long time for this moment, and I’m confident in delivering a strong performance on Sunday.’

Bazezew Asmare who was carrying a minor injury in his last marathon said, ‘I ran my last marathon with a small injury, but now I’m fully fit and well-prepared for Sunday.

‘If I get a good result here, it will be a step forward in my career. Representing my country, Ethiopia, is my ultimate goal, and I believe a strong performance in Mumbai can help me move closer to that dream.’

The duo is joined by Kenyan Philemon Rono, the runner-up here in 2023, and three other Elite runners: Bazezew Asmare in the men’s section, Shitaye Ehete, and Shuko Gemeo in the international elite athletes press conference held on Thursday.

Eshete speaking at the press conference said, ‘I started running at a very young age and eventually joined the national team, which deepened my love for the sport. I’ve always enjoyed running, and I have a strong track background, including finishing sixth in the 10,000 meters at the London race.

‘While I enjoyed competing on the track, I’ve shifted my focus to marathons because there are more opportunities to earn and achieve success in road racing. Transitioning to marathons has been a learning experience.

‘I’ve realized that success in this discipline requires a lot of mileage and consistent long-distance training. By focusing on high mileage and preparation, I believe I can achieve great results in marathons.”

Rono was not in good shape last season, but confident of a comeback this time. Berhanu revealed he is in fine form and looking for another memorable victory.