Over 13,500 people take part as National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla organises first-ever marathon within its premises as part of diamond jubilee celebrations

Over 13,500 people take part as National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla organises first-ever marathon within its premises as part of diamond jubilee celebrations

National Defence Academy (NDA), Khadakwasla organised the first-ever marathon within its premises on October 15, 2023, as part of its year-long diamond jubilee celebrations. With a vision to motivate and inspire, the ‘NDA Marathon’ provided a blend of fortitude and endurance to over 13,500 people, who took part from across the country, and gave them, especially the youth, an exclusive glimpse of the academy’s top-tier training facilities & heritage.

The marathon featured multiple race categories, including a 42-km full Marathon, a 21-km Half-Marathon and 10-km, 5-km & 3-km runs, all happening concurrently. The NDA is located in Khadakwasla, Pune, Maharashtra and situated at the foothills of the Sahyadri mountain ranges. The NDA campus is spread over 7,015 acres and is surrounded by picturesque hills and a large lake. The running track inside the NDA campus is a 21-km loop that takes the runners through the scenic beauty of the campus.

The oldest participant in the marathon was 96 years old and the youngest was five years of age. The winners from various categories are as follows:

The NDA will complete 75 glorious years of its existence on January 16, 2024. As part of the year-long celebrations, which commenced on January 16, 2023, various academic, sports and adventure activities have been planned and organised.