Pune City Half Marathon 2026: 15,000 Runners to Hit the Streets this Sunday; Check Route, Traffic Advisory, and Event Details
Pune is all set to transform into a sea of fitness enthusiasts as the third edition of the Pune City Half Marathon 2026 kicks off this Sunday, March 1. Organized by The Poona Club Ltd and executed by the Dorabjee Charitable Trust, the event is expected to see over 15,000 participants racing through the scenic, tree-lined avenues of the Pune Cantonment.
Everything You Need to Know About Pune City Half Marathon 2026
The Pune City Half Marathon 2026 has quickly become a flagship event in the city’s sporting calendar. This year’s edition is themed around a “Run for a Cause,” focusing on environmental sustainability and community welfare. Supported by the Southern Command, Pune Police, and the Income Tax Department, the run offers a unique opportunity to race through the restricted, lush green areas of the Pune Camp.
Race Categories and Start Timings
The event features four distinct categories to cater to everyone from professional athletes to families:
- 21.1 km (Legends Run): The flagship Half Marathon.
- 10 km (Empower Run): A timed challenge for fitness enthusiasts.
- 5 km (Fun Run): Perfect for beginners and casual joggers.
- 3 km (Family Run): A short route designed for all age groups.
The marathon will commence at 5:00 AM sharp from the iconic Pune Race Course (RWITC). Runners are advised to arrive at least 45 minutes early for the pre-race warm-up and Zumba sessions.
Pune City Half Marathon 2026 Route Map and Venue
The Pune City Half Marathon 2026 route is widely considered the “greenest” in the city. Starting at the Race Course Jogging Track on Vikramaditya Marg, the path winds through the historic Pune Cantonment.
Participants in the 10 km and 21.1 km categories will navigate a professionally managed course featuring multiple hydration stations, medical support points, and “zero-waste” stations to maintain the event’s eco-friendly credentials.
Prize Money and Runner Rewards
The organizers have confirmed prize money for winners across various age and gender categories. Every registered participant will receive:
- Dry-fit T-shirt and runner’s kit.
- Finisher’s Medal and E-Timing Certificate (for 10k and 21k).
- Nutritious breakfast and refreshments post-race.
- Free event photographs.
Pune City Marathon Traffic Advisory and Diversions
With 15,000 runners expected, the Pune Police have issued a traffic advisory for Sunday morning. Commuters are requested to avoid the following areas between 4:30 AM and 9:30 AM:
- Vikramaditya Marg (Race Course): Restricted access for private vehicles.
- Solapur Road & Camp Areas: Expect diversions near the Southern Command headquarters.
- Bund Garden Road: Minor delays expected as participants head toward the venue.
Traffic Tip: Residents traveling toward the Pune Railway Station or Airport during these hours are advised to use the Yerwada or Deccan routes to avoid the marathon-induced congestion in Camp.
Run for a Cause: A Movement Beyond Fitness
“This is not just a marathon; it’s a movement,” says Shailesh Ranka, the Race Director. The 2026 edition continues the “You Run, We Plant” initiative, where a tree is planted for every participant. The funds raised also support old age homes, education for underprivileged children, and initiatives for the visually impaired.
For those looking for marathons in Pune March 2026, this event marks the grand beginning of a busy month, followed by the SBI Green Marathon later in the season.
