Delhi Half Marathon Maintains Half Million Levels

Besides the quartet of new sponsors, the Delhi Half Marathon continues to be heavily backed by the likes of Puma, Star Sports, Jabong, Bisleri, Volini, Seiko, ORSL, Le Meridien, The Times of India, 98.3 Radio Mirchi and Max Healthcare.

The annual athletic event—in its 11^th edition—continues to be the biggest race in India with over 34,000 participants pounding the streets of Delhi on October 21^st, including this year’s celebrity endorsee, South African cricket legend and Puma brand ambassador, Jonty Rhodes.

Abhishek Ganguly, Managing Director, Puma India, said, “We are delighted to have Puma athlete Jonty Rhodes at the Airtel Delhi Half Marathon. He has inspired sportspersons around the world with his extraordinary commitment and discipline. As a leading Sports brand, Puma’s philosophy is to encourage everyone to step out of their comfort zone and indulge in physical activity to stay fit and healthy. I am sure his presence at the event will motivate many to start, and others to raise the bar in their fitness journey.”

The US$280k prize event will witness participants running in four race categories – Half Marathon (elite & amateur), Great Delhi Run, 10K Run, Senior Citizens and Champions with Disability.

According to the ASN Index, the Indian sponsorship market for athletics has been relatively stable, averaging almost US$2.2m per quarter since Q116, however, major spends tend to come in the 1^st quarter of the year, and it has mere 1.1% share of the total investment across the country. The scene is still dominated by major financial services players, MNCs and international sports apparel brands. Judging by the last two Delhi Half Marathons, total sponsorship for this year’s event is likely to be in the US$500 to 600k region.