Who Dominated the New Delhi Marathon: Kartik and Nirmaben Claim Top Titles?
Synopsis
The New Delhi Marathon saw Kartik Karkera and Nirmaben Thakor clinch the top spots in their respective categories. With a record number of participants and thrilling finishes, this year's marathon was a remarkable showcase of athletic excellence and competitive spirit.
Key Takeaways
Kartik Karkera set a record time in the men's marathon.
Nirmaben Thakor emerged as the top female runner.
The marathon attracted over 30,000 participants .
It featured elite runners from 31 countries .
The event showcased a spirited competition.
New Delhi, Feb 22 (NationPress) Mumbai’s Kartik Karkera blazed through the course during the 11th edition of the New Delhi Marathon, securing the esteemed title this past Sunday.
Finishing the 42.2 kilometers while the world rested, he clocked an impressive time of two hours and thirteen minutes (02:13:10), easily exceeding the qualifying standard for the upcoming Asian Games in Japan.
A medical professional, the 28-year-old skillfully navigated a strong challenge from Gopi Thonakal (02:13:12) and Man Singh (02:13:15), ultimately clinching the top spot.
The intense rivalry among the trio saw them cross the finish line mere seconds apart, all well within the 2:15:04 threshold necessary for men to compete in the Asian Games this September.
In contrast, the elite women fell short of their male counterparts' remarkable pace, unable to meet the 2:31:52 benchmark. However, Nirmaben Thakor (02:41:15) can take pride in her performance, maintaining her higher ranking while finishing ahead of Bhagirathi (02:43:28) and Ashwini Jadhav (02:56:59).
In other significant races, Kuldip Kumar (01:08:51) and Genet Shikur Reshid (01:19:36) emerged victorious in the half-marathons. Ravi Bumbak (01:09:33) and Mohmmad Sahil Anigeri (01:09:41) secured the next two spots among men, while Ekta Ekta (01:19:39) and Priti Lamva (01:19:59) followed suit among women.
The New Delhi Marathon, recognized as the AFI certified National Marathon, was a tremendous success with over 30,000 runners from 31 countries and 490 cities participating.
Olympic medalist Vijender Singh and tennis star Rohan Bopanna kicked off the key races in the morning, later presenting trophies and prize money to the winners.
Results-
Marathon (Men): 1. Kartik Jayraj Karkera (02:13:10); 2. Gopi Thonakal (02:13:12); 3. Man Singh (02:13:15)
Marathon (Women): 1. Thakor Nirmaben Bharatjee (02:41:15); 2. Bhagirathi (02:43:28); 3. Ashwini Madan Jadhav (02:56:59)
Half-Marathon (Men): 1. Kuldip Kumar (01:08:51); 2. Ravi Bumbak (01:09:33); 3. Mohmmad Sahil Anigeri (01:09:41)
Half-Marathon (Women): 1. Genet Shikur Reshid (01:19:36); 2. Ekta Ekta (01:19:39); 3. Priti Lamva (01:19:59)
10K (Men): 1. Manav Sharma (0:30:40); 2. Prakash Rai (0:30:44); 3. Vishal Singh (0:34:45)
10K (Women): 1. Anjali (0:37:05); 2. Neha Neha (0:41:50); 3. Anupriti Mishra (0:41:48)
Point of View
The New Delhi Marathon has once again proven to be a significant event in the athletic calendar, bringing together thousands of runners from diverse backgrounds. The performances of Kartik Karkera and Nirmaben Thakor exemplify the spirit of perseverance and excellence in Indian athletics.
NationPress
21 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the winning time for the men's marathon?
Kartik Karkera won the men's marathon with a time of two hours and thirteen minutes (02:13:10) .
Who won the women's marathon?
The women's marathon was won by Nirmaben Thakor with a time of 02:41:15 .
How many participants were there in the marathon?
The New Delhi Marathon featured over 30,000 runners from 31 countries .
What is the significance of the New Delhi Marathon?
The New Delhi Marathon is recognized as the AFI certified National Marathon of India, showcasing top athletic talent.
Who flagged off the marathon?
Olympic medalist Vijender Singh and tennis star Rohan Bopanna flagged off the key races.
