The eighth edition of Manipal Marathon–2026 to be held on February 8 is expected to bring together over 20,000 runners, including 100-plus international athletes, competing for a prize pool exceeding ₹25 lakhs, according to H.S. Ballal, Pro-Chancellor, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE).
Addressing press persons in Manipal on Monday, Dr. Ballal said that the marathon, hosted by MAHE, will begin at 5 a.m. from KMC Greens, Manipal.
The theme of the marathon is ‘miles for a greener tomorrow.’
The marathon will have five race categories: 42K Full Marathon, 21K Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, and the 3K Fun Run. Athletes, amateur runners, students, and fitness enthusiasts across age groups can participate. International participants are expected from Dubai, England, Ethiopia, Germany, Japan, Kenya, Malaysia, and more.
The 42K Full Marathon will begin at 5 a.m., followed by the 21K Half Marathon at 5.30 a.m., 10K at 6 a.m., 5K at 6.20 a.m., and the 3K Fun Run at 7.30 a.m.
The special category races for differently abled participants will be flagged off at 8.30 a.m.
Prizes
The marathon offers cash prizes for the fastest finishers across categories. In the 42K Full Marathon, the top three finishers will be awarded ₹1 lakh for first place, ₹75,000 for second place, and ₹50,000 for third place. The 21K Half Marathon will reward ₹50,000, ₹30,000, and ₹20,000 for first, second, and third places, respectively. Winners of the 10K run will receive ₹20,000 for first place, ₹15,000 for second place, and ₹10,000 for third place, while the 5K run will carry prizes of ₹10,000, ₹7,000, and ₹5,000 for the top three finishers.
The 42K run will happen on the beachside route.
The event will culminate in a vibrant post-run carnival at KMC Greens, featuring music, cultural performances, and food stalls, creating a festive atmosphere for runners and families.
Published – February 02, 2026 08:57 pm IST
