Multiple Olympic and World Champion Sir Mo Farah to be the the International Event Ambassador

The annual Tata Mumbai Marathon (TMM), touted as one of Asia’s most prestigious marathon will witness a record-breaking 60,000 plus runners take to the start line near the iconic Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus Heritage Building on Sunday, 19th^, January 2025.

Ranked amongst the top 10 marathons in the world, the USD 390,238 event in to its 20th edition that is promoted by Mumbai based Procam International, will feature the world’s best, including the defending champions Hayle Lemi Berhanu (Ethiopia) and Srinu Bugatha (India) in the Men’s Elite category, along with Aberash Minsewo (Ethiopia) and Thakor Nirmaben (India) leading the Women's Elite pack. 

Further the promoters of the TMM  - the largest showcase of people pushing the boundaries of the human spirit, also announced Somalian-born British runner Sir Mo Farah, winner of on four Olympic and six World Championship consecutive Gold medals, as the International Event Ambassador for the World Athletics Gold Label race during the countdown Press Conference of the iconic long distance road race.

Ujjwal Mathur, President, India Business & Strategic Accounts – Growth Markets, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) in his address highlighted Tata Group’s  legacy in Indian sports and unyielding quest to support excellence and fostering a culture of wellness while giving back to the society by sponsoring global events like Tata Mumbai Marathon over the years that is a testament to the enduring spirit of the running community, and health-conscious citizens.

“Sports is not about endurance but also human spirit. Over the past two decades the Tata Mumbai Marathon has become a beacon of unity and resilience, showcasing the spirit of community and the strength of human endurance. TMM not only champions health and fitness but also embodies the values of perseverance and unity that our beloved city and country stand for. TCS is honored to be part of this journey and is excited to continue this partnership, using App based technologies to elevate the marathon experience for both the runners and spectators alike. As we gear up for the 20th edition, our parent company Tata Sons and TCS look forward to witnessing countless stories of grit, determination and inspiring change by pushing one's limit, “ said Ujjwal Mathur while addressing the august gathering on behalf of TCS and Tata Sons.

He signed off with couple of inspiring anonymous quotes that stated ‘The only way to run a marathon is to run and when the legs get tired run with your heart in order to achieve what you had planned to before the start of the race that is to FINISH it’

Vikas Sharma, Head-Wealth Management & Private Banking, IDFC FIRST Bank who spoke in absence of his senior Naarayan TV, CMO because of some pressing official engagement said, “IDFC FIRST Bank is proud to partner with the 20th edition of the Tata Mumbai Marathon, a premier running event that is held on third Sunday of January every year celebrates the spirit and determination of Mumbai. With a record 60,000 plus runners hitting the road and over two lakhs cheerleaders all across the route it the same champions the cause of health and fitness for social good,  which is one of our core pillars. Our partnership too reflects our commitment to fostering resilience, progress, and the spirit of moving ahead. Further we believe that progress is a combination of good health and financial well-being. More than just a race, it is a testament to perseverance and community spirit. We are excited to witness the energy, enthusiasm, and camaraderie of this event and to be part of every runner’s #JourneyToTheStart.,"

Guest of Honour Joshna Chinappa, one of the finest squash players of India, Arjuna and Padma Shree awards recipient who has won 18 national titles and two time Asian individual champion and ASICS athlete said, “I’m very excited to be here. Being part of the 20th edition is extremely special. It takes a huge amount of dedication, and I hope the Tata Mumbai Marathon keeps getting better and better every year. It’s very special to be part of an event like this. It shows that your body is healthy and fit, and you’ve worked hard to get here. Take a moment to appreciate your hard work and enjoy the process”.

Earlier Vivek Singh Jt. Managing Director Procam International who along with his elder brother Anil conceptualized the very first edition of Mumbai Marathon stated, “Our belief and conviction was to give India a platform that is much more than a sporting event; a panacea for society. Two decades have passed, yet every moment of this incredible journey feels as vivid as yesterday.  From 15,000 runners in the first edition to current 60,000 plus runners, in addition to raising Rs. 42 Lakhs for Philanthropic activities to Rs. 72 crores in the last edition, to witness the ripples of Change this race has created is humbling, and this ‘Change Began’ with each one of you contributing to the success of the Tata Mumbai Marathon”.

He concluded by saying,  “ We are thrilled to welcome Sir Mo Farah, one of the most decorated athletes in the world to Mumbai., His presence is a perfect match for Asia's most prestigious marathon and will truly elevate our celebration and inspire all our runners to aim for greatness.”

As per Procamm International TMM 2025, Marathon, the feature race distance, will witness the highest participation ever with 11791 runners. The other on-ground race categories – Half Marathon (13771), 10K (7184), Champions with Disability (1089), Senior Citizens’ Run (1894), and the Dream Run (24238) have been oversubscribed. Registrations for the virtual run of the event will continue until Wednesday, 15th January 2025, at 11:59 pm, or once all spots are filled or whichever is earlier.

In a recorded video message Sir Mo Farah said, “I am thrilled to be the International Event Ambassador for the landmark 20th edition of the Tata Mumbai Marathon. When I run, I feel free, feel happy, and what better way to share this feeling with my fellow runners than an event that kickstarted a running movement in India 20 years ago. Road running has been a catalyst for change, as has the city of Mumbai - ChangeBeganHere. I am looking forward to seeing a superb celebration amidst the sights and sounds of Mumbai. I’ll be there cheering for everyone at the start line”.