This Valentine’s Day, thousands will run on the streets of Thane for their love of running a marathon. More than 11,500 running enthusiasts have registered to run in the fourth edition of the Hiranandani Thane Half Marathon (HTHM) to be held on February 14, 2016, making it one of the biggest running events in the country.
Growing popularity
Over the last three years, it has become one of the most popular running events held in western India and witnesses participants from not only Thane, Mumbai and adjoining areas but also from nearby cities like Nashik and Pune.
The crowd support, music, dance and all necessary amenities along the route, makes running enjoyable for the runners and translates this event into a running festival. Added to this, the fact that it is one of the few marathons recognized by the Athletic Federation of India (AFI), makes it all the more important for marathon regulars to participate.
Race Categories
There will be three categories in this edition, Half Marathon- 21.097km, Green Run-10km, Fun Run -4 km and will all be flagged off from Hiranandani Estate Thane. Known for its small but frequent elevations, the Half Marathon route will surely test the physical strength, stamina and determination of runners.
Pacers will be available for Half Marathon participants to help them finish the race in their time goals. The flat route of Green Run route will provide the runners a pleasant running experience.
The Fun Run will bring an element of entertainment, with runners running in various colours and eye-catching running gears.
Awards
Like every year, there will be special prizes for the winners. All finishers will receive medals and timing certificates.
Funds used for charitable cause
The organizers of this marathon utilize the money collected from runners to register for this event, for a charitable cause. This year the amount collected would be used to build sanitation facilities in and around Thane area under the aegis of The Thane Municipal Corporation.
