Bengaluru, April 18 (NationPress) The 18th edition of the World 10K Bengaluru is set to take place on Sunday, April 26, with more than 35,000 runners expected to participate in both in-person and virtual formats. This highly anticipated event continues to embody the city’s dynamic spirit, #EndendiguBengaluru, marking another remarkable achievement.

As the premier 10K race in India, it consistently elevates expectations, with the Open 10K registration selling out in a mere seven days and other categories also experiencing high demand. This trend highlights the rapid rise of distance running as one of the nation's most popular sports.

With a prize pool of USD 210,000, this World Athletics Gold Label Race will feature a highly competitive elite field, including Uganda’s Harbert Kibet, defending champion Sarah Chelangat, and the record holder Abhishek Pal from India, alongside Sanjivani Jadhav. The race will unfold against the picturesque backdrop of Bengaluru. Additionally, World Champion and Olympic medallist Blanka Vlasic will grace the start line on Cubbon Road as the International Event Ambassador.

All participants will receive a specially crafted passport at the Expo, which will serve as a cherished keepsake throughout the racing season. After completing their race, runners will be awarded a distinctive stamp, unique to each distance, with the World 10K in Bengaluru featuring a signature colour stamp. Over time, this passport transforms into a valuable memento that records milestones, achievements, and the essence of each finish line, much like a personal running log.

The men’s race will feature defending champion Abhishek Pal, alongside Kiran Matre, who recently secured second place among Indians at the Delhi Half Marathon 2025 (1:04:57) and finished third at the World 10K Bengaluru 2025 (30:01). Also in the mix is National Marathon Champion Kartik Karkera, who made a triumphant debut at the Mumbai Marathon 2026 with a time of 2:19:55.

The elite female competitors will include defending champion Sanjivani Jadhav, who boasts a personal best of 34:02 achieved at the World 10K Bengaluru 2024. She has demonstrated consistent success in local road races, clinching victory at the Mumbai Marathon 2026 on her first attempt and previously winning the World 25K Kolkata 2024 in 1:29:12. She will face competition from Lili Das, who has a personal best of 34:13 and is a former national champion in the 1500m, having won the Delhi Half Marathon 2024 and been the runner-up at the World 25K Kolkata 2024.

Indian hockey star Jarmanpreet Singh has unveiled the exclusive Finisher Tee, continuing the brand’s tradition of supporting endurance athletes. To celebrate their hard work and commitment, the top 1500 finishers in the Open 10K, men’s, and women’s categories will receive this commemorative tee.

Jarmanpreet commented, “I see a strong connection between hockey and running. It’s all about pacing yourself, maintaining consistency, and finishing strong. Although I haven’t participated in a 10K yet, the principles remain the same: preparation, discipline, and mental fortitude. In Bengaluru, I’ve witnessed the excitement surrounding the World 10K Bengaluru. Even in my community, everyone is preparing and encouraging one another. It’s not solely about the race, but the sense of community and connection it fosters.”