A volunteer cheers participants during the Vizag Navy Marathon 2025, organised by the Indian Navy along Beach Road in Visakhapatnam on Sunday.
| Photo Credit: K.R. DEEPAK
More than 17,000 people enthusiastically participated in the 10th edition of the Eastern Naval Command (ENC) Navy Marathon, held along the scenic Beach Road on Sunday. The iconic coastal stretch turned into a ‘sea of humanity,’ as participants and spectators gathered in large numbers to celebrate fitness and community spirit.
People from all walks of life— young children to senior citizens— participated with remarkable enthusiasm and sporting spirit. The atmosphere was festive, with runners and onlookers alike capturing moments through selfies and sharing their experiences widely on social media platforms.
The flagging off of the full marathon (42 km) and the prize distribution ceremony were graced by the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command, Vice Admiral Sanjay Bhalla. Meanwhile, the half marathon and the Sankalp Run were flagged off by the president, NWWA (Eastern Region), Priya Bhalla.
Meanwhile, the 10 km run was flagged off by District Collector M.N. Harendhira Prasad, while the 5 km run was flagged off by Commissioner of Police Shankabratha Bagchi.
The event attracted professional athletes and fitness enthusiasts from across India as well as from abroad, making it a truly competitive and inclusive sporting event.
Distinguished guests included senior Flag Officers, Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) Commissioner, veterans from the armed forces, and senior officials from key partner organisations such as State Bank of India (SBI) and Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL).
The ENC authorities said that reflecting its evolving nature, this edition of the marathon featured several new and enhanced features, including attractive discounts for runners and an improved package of deliverables aimed at enriching the overall participant experience. In a significant step towards ensuring participant welfare, all runners were also provided with insurance cover, ensuring safety and well-being throughout the event.
Addressing the gathering, Vice Admiral Sanjay Bhalla conveyed his wishes to all the best performers, participants and organisers. He also expressed sincere gratitude to the district administration, city police, volunteer organisations and all supporting agencies for their support and coordination, which played a crucial role in making the event a resounding success.
Published – December 14, 2025 11:20 pm IST
