Mumbai, Jan 16 (NationPress) This Sunday, the Mumbai Marathon is gearing up for an exhilarating showdown of international and national elite runners as top-tier athletes from various countries including Ethiopia, Uganda, and Eritrea prepare to compete alongside India’s finest distance runners in the latest edition of the World Athletics Gold Label Road Race.

Known as one of Asia's most challenging marathons, this event has gained a reputation for attracting athletes at their peak, ready to tackle tough conditions and a rapidly changing course. This year’s elite lineup is a testament to that, featuring world champions, seasoned international athletes, and India's top marathoners, all arriving in Mumbai with impressive recent performances, meticulous training, and a strong competitive spirit.

Among the top international competitors is Ethiopia’s Bazezew Asmare Belay, known for his consistency in major city marathons. Ahead of the race, Belay stated, “My preparation for the Tata Mumbai Marathon has been intensely focused on maintaining rhythm under tough conditions. I have garnered valuable experiences from racing in major cities, and consistency has been my key strength over recent seasons. Mumbai is a demanding course, which excites me as an athlete. I look forward to challenging myself and delivering a remarkable performance.”

Joining him is Uganda’s reigning world champion, Victor Kiplangat, who brings championship experience and a calm demeanor to the event. Kiplangat shared, “Each marathon teaches something new, and the Tata Mumbai Marathon is no exception. My training has involved patience and execution. I have had special moments in my career, but I approach each race as a new challenge. I am eager to compete here and perform to the best of my abilities.”

Eritrea’s Merhawi Kesete Weldemaryam, who earned a silver medal at last year’s Tata Mumbai Marathon, is also a strong contender. He expressed, “This marathon brings back great memories for me, which boosts my confidence for this race. My training has focused on endurance and pacing. Competing against a strong field excites me, as it brings out the best in me.”

The women’s international field is robust, with strong Ethiopian representation led by Shure Demise, who has achieved success in major marathons worldwide. “My training has been consistent and I feel healthy entering this marathon, which is crucial. This event is special due to the atmosphere and the support along the course. I am excited to race and see the results of my preparation on race day,” Demise commented.

Also competing is Medina Deme Armino, who has had a positive recent season. “This season has been very rewarding for me, and this race is another important step in my journey. My training has focused on building strength and maintaining mental composure. I love racing in India because the vibrant energy keeps you motivated throughout the course. I am eager to compete and give my utmost effort,” she expressed.

Completing the Ethiopian lineup is Yeshi Kalayu Chekole, who sees the Mumbai race as a vital part of her development. “I have experienced a mix of races lately, and the Tata Mumbai Marathon presents an opportunity to grow and learn. My training has focused on staying relaxed and finishing strong. Every marathon offers valuable experience, especially under demanding conditions. I am thrilled to be part of such a strong field and race with confidence,” she remarked.

INDIAN ELITE ATHLETES PREPARE FOR THE CHALLENGE

Indian distance running will be prominently showcased by a seasoned and in-form domestic lineup.

Leading the pack is last year’s champion, Anish Thapa, who understands the race's significance for Indian athletes. “Participating in this marathon is always meaningful for an Indian runner, especially given my recent successes here. My preparation has been disciplined, focusing on recovery and consistency. Winning here gave me confidence, but my hunger for improvement remains, and I am eager to represent Indian distance running strongly once again,” Thapa stated.

Two-time champion Srinu Bugatha, known for his reliability on the Indian circuit, echoed similar sentiments. “The Tata Mumbai Marathon is one of the pivotal races on the Indian calendar, and I have prepared earnestly for it. My training has been structured, emphasizing pacing and strength. Each year, the competition intensifies, which inspires us to elevate our performance. I am excited to race and see how my preparation translates into results,” Bugatha shared.

Among the women’s Indian elite athletes, seasoned competitor Thakor Nirmaben Bharatjee, aiming for a hat-trick this year, returns to a course integral to her journey.

“This marathon has significantly shaped my career, and returning feels incredibly special. My training has been consistent, focusing on endurance and injury prevention. Competing here instills confidence due to the crowd’s support. I am eager to race and aim for another strong performance,” she remarked.

Veteran marathoner and two-time champion Jyoti Gawate brings experience and composure, having raced in Mumbai multiple times. “This marathon holds immense importance in my career, and every return feels familiar and motivating. My training has been steady, emphasizing strength and consistency rather than chasing extraordinary results. Experience teaches respect for the marathon and the importance of listening to one’s body. I am thrilled to be back on this course and enjoy the race,” Gawate expressed.

Completing the Indian contingent is rising star Bhagirathi, who is gaining momentum in her early career. “This season has been full of learning and confidence, especially after my win in Delhi. My training for the Tata Mumbai Marathon has prioritized endurance and mental strength during long runs. Competing against seasoned athletes drives my growth with every marathon. I am eager to run in Mumbai and continue advancing my journey step by step,” she stated.

As athletes emphasize disciplined preparation and the significance of execution amidst challenges, the unified message from the elite field suggests this will be a race defined by patience, experience, and resilience. The international competitors arrive with proven expertise from major city marathons and championships, viewing Mumbai as both a challenge and an opportunity, while Indian athletes approach the race with confidence stemming from recent achievements, familiarity with the course, and a desire to elevate the standard on home soil.

As race day approaches, the Mumbai Marathon once more stands at the intersection of global competition and national pride. For international participants, it serves as a platform to reinforce consistency and ambition; for India’s elite, it presents a chance to test themselves against world-class opponents in front of a passionate home crowd.