The stage is set in Bengaluru for the 18th World 10K on Sunday, where Karnataka Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot will kick off proceedings amid high anticipation. Elite Indian runners headline the field in this globally renowned event, chasing glory and a $210,000 prize pool.
Top Indian male victor nets Rs 3 lakh, with women close behind at Rs 2.75 lakh. Record-breakers earn a Rs 1 lakh bonus, setting the tone for explosive performances on a challenging course.
Abhishek Pal, the reigning men’s elite king, seeks to defend his crown after setting the Indian event record at 29:12 last year. The seasoned athlete reflected, ‘Racing in Bengaluru feels like home. That record last season supercharged my belief. Early in the season, it’s ideal for testing my limits—I expect to deliver big.’
Kartik Karakera brings momentum from recent marathon wins, including nationals and Mumbai’s marquee event. ‘Form is peaking,’ he stated, ‘but this 10K builds the speed-endurance base I need for Asian Games marathons.’
Sanjivani Jadhav, women’s elite dominator, aims for a three-peat. Victorious the past two years, she’s all in. ‘Training’s on point, shifting focus to shorter distances for Asian Games prep. Defending the title while improving my timing is the goal.’
Record-breaking 36,000+ runners signal unprecedented participation. The flag-off features Governor Gehlot, Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar, Dr. G. Parameshwara, and Blanca Vlasic. High-profile entrants include Omar Abdullah, Yaduveer Wadiyar, Tejasvi Surya, Brigadier Alva, and Italian Consul Giandomenico Milano.
As Bengaluru pulses with energy, the World 10K reaffirms its status as a cornerstone of Indian athletics, inspiring masses while showcasing the nation’s top talents in a spectacle of speed, stamina, and sheer determination.
