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Category: sports

Maruti Suzuki ARENA Devils Circuit Returns With A 10 City Rollout

11 September 2024: The 12th Season of India’s biggest Obstacle race – The Maruti Suzuki ARENA Devils Circuit – is announced with a pan India rollout across 10 cities, with Ahmedabad and Indore added to the lineup. Since its inception almost a decade ago, The Maruti Suzuki ARENA Devils Circuit Races have attracted athletes and thrill-seekers alike. Proclaimed to be the Toughest Race in Asia, the winners of the Maruti Suzuki ARENA Devils Circuit competitive category have been army personnel, fitness trainers, and professionals with an affinity to personal fitness.

Devils Circuit -1

The current season, just launched, aims to attract 60,000+ devilslayers to the course where they will be met with a 5 km long course peppered with 15 military style obstacles.

Known for offering the biggest prize in amateur sports, the competitive category of participation sees enthusiasts run across every city of the season to try and get a podium finish which gives them points. The male and female athlete at the end of the season wins themselves a brand new Maruti Suzuki Swift Car. The competition every year has been fierce and the participants who emerge victorious showcase the best athletic prowess seen in any amateur competition.

Speaking at the launch of the season, Adnan Adeeb, Founder of the property, said: “I am very emotional as we launch the 12th Season, and I wish to dedicate this season of the Devils Circuit races to the never die spirit of this amazing growing tribe of Devilslayers who are all now determined than ever before to raise the bar of their personal fitness goals and compete to win because to them and us, life is no longer a spectator sport.”

In the last 10+ years, it has been an absolute privilege to have hosted participants from over 800 cities, and 30 countries. And now as we look ahead, I am grateful and feel truly blessed to have received the support from partners, participants and the incredible tribe of devilslayers. My biggest thanks to Maruti Suzuki for their continued belief in Devils Circuit, together we will make this property soar to higher skies,” he added.

Commenting on this occasion, Mr. Partho Banerjee, Senior Executive Officer, Marketing & Sales, Maruti Suzuki India Limited, said, “Our association with the Devils Circuit has been a long standing one. As it continues to strengthen, we enter this year’s 12th season of Devils Circuit with renewed zeal and gusto, showcasing the Epic New Swift. We hope to satiate the thrill seekers, rightly called the ‘Devilslayers’, yet again with their enormous appetite for adventure. The Maruti Suzuki Swift, with its agility and performance, embodies the contestants’ tenacity and high energy to overcome challenging obstacles. We believe that this collaboration underscores our shared value of striving for excellence.”

Apart from Maruti Suzuki India Limited, Red Bull, Bisleri, Page Industries (Jockey), Adani Realty, Raheja Developers, & Omaxe are brands that have come on board to collaborate with the property.

Maruti Suzuki ARENA Devils Circuit, one of the coolest concepts of racing introduced to India by the company is a unique disruptive sports property that has already initiated a revolution in the entire fitness and running category mix. Its model encourages camaraderie between runners as they tackle a running track interspersed with military-style obstacles, including high warped walls, barbed wire, and ice.

The current season starts with the first race in Indore on the 29th of September and culminates in Delhi on the 9th of March. Through this period, races will also be held across Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Pune, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kochi, Chennai, and Mohali.

In today’s new post-pandemic world, this concept has proved to be an even bigger draw for organisations that are looking for opportunities of connecting and engaging with a diverse employee base. At Maruti Suzuki ARENA Devils Circuit, historically over 70% of participants have come from corporate backgrounds and this season will be no different. According to previous participants, at the Maruti Suzuki ARENA Devils Circuit races, everyone works towards the same goal- leaving no man behind. The organic camaraderie and team spirit that arises, sets up a perfect way to team build and create deep connections.

The concept has grown popular among fitness enthusiasts as well as corporates seeking to build a healthy team spirit. Maruti Suzuki ARENA Devils Circuit enjoys participation from individuals across a diverse age group ranging from 16 to 70 years old. Designed for those across varying fitness levels, it allows everyone to test themselves in a highly challenging environment.

With a grand prize of a brand new Maruti Suzuki swift up for grabs in both the male and Female competitive participation categories, the property also offers the biggest prize in amateur sports in the country today.

American Pistachios Growers onboards Jasprit Bumrah as Brand Ambassador

September 10, 2024, New Delhi, India: The India office of American Pistachios Growers (APG) has announced Jasprit Bumrah, One of the leading pace bowlers/ cricket icons in the WORLD, as the brand ambassador for California-grown American pistachios for the 2024-25 season.

juspreet byumrah

“Jasprit Bumrah’s unwavering commitment to excellence, both on and off the field, makes him the ideal ambassador for American Pistachios Growers (APG),” said Garth Thorburn, the Minister Counselor for Agriculture at the US Embassy in India.
“We are thrilled to have him champion the message of pistachio nutrition. A significant number of pistachio growers in the United States, particularly in California, are of Indian origin. This partnership not only strengthens the bond between our nations but also promotes a shared vision of health and wellness for people everywhere. Welcome to the family, Jasprit.”

Speaking on the association, Jasprit Bumrah exclusively represented by RISE Worldwide said, “I’m delighted to partner with American Pistachio Growers. For an athlete, nutrition plays a huge role in performance, and I find pistachios to be a perfect snack. They are packed with protein and healthy fats, offering me sustained energy throughout the day. American pistachios are my go-to because they provide the nutrients I need to stay at my best.”

Speaking on the occasion Dr. Siddhant Bhargava MBBS, Diet specialist, celebrity nutritionist and a health entrepreneur “For athletes, American pistachios are a powerful ally. They’re rich in antioxidants that protect healthy cells from free radical damage and provide complete protein essential for muscle regeneration and repair. Also, they offer beneficial fats, fiber, and crucial nutrients that support peak performance and overall health.”

Mr. Sumit Saran, Indian representative of APG said, “We are very delighted and honored to be associated with one of India’s iconic sports figures, Jasprit Bumrah. His exceptional achievements have not only brought glory to the nation but have also inspired countless individuals.

India is a growth market for American pistachios. India itself does not produce any pistachios. However, as awareness about pistachios and its health benefits increase, we are seeing continuous growth in demand for American pistachios. With Jasprit Bumrah, we are looking to take this information about American pistachio nutrition and health to health-conscious consumers across the country,” Saran added.

American pistachios are easily available on all major e-commerce platforms and with major dry fruit retailers across India. Consumers can find them by simply searching or asking for “California pistachios” and choose from the many brands that sell them in India.

India’s New Sports League Launches in Odisha, Marking a Sporting Revolution

Kolkata, 9th September 2024: Odisha made its debut in the internationally recognised Legends League Cricket (LLC) T-20 with the introduction of its own team, Team Konark Suryas Odisha, owned by SANPRIYA Group. This addition marked a significant milestone for the state as it further established itself as a growing hub for sports in India. The league, which brought together cricket legends from across the world, featured Team Konark Suryas Odisha alongside teams such as India Capitals Delhi, Gujarat Giants Gujarat, Manipal Tigers Bengaluru, Urbanrisers Hyderabad and Southern Super Stars Chennai.

sports league

The team’s name is inspired by the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Konark Sun Temple, symbolising Odisha’s rich cultural heritage. The official launch of Team Konark Suryas Odisha took place in Bhubaneswar with Mr. Sanjay Behera, Secretary, Odisha Cricket Association (OCA), present to underscore the importance of this event for the state. He emphasised that the introduction of this T-20 franchise team, brought by the SANPRIYA Group, will help boost sports infrastructure in Odisha and provide the state’s youth with greater access to international-level sports opportunities.

The team, captained by Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan, features notable players including Ambati Rayudu, Yusuf Pathan, Vinay Kumar, Rajesh Bishnoi, Shahbaz Nadeem, Pravin Tambe, Diwesh Pathania, K P Appanna & Natraj Behera (Odisha) from India and international stars like Ross Taylor from New Zealand, Kevin O’ Brien from Ireland, Ben Laughlin from Australia, Richard Levi from South Africa, Navin Stewart and Fidel Edwards from West Indies and Dilshan Munaweera from Sri Lanka.

Mr. Sanjay Behera, Secretary, Odisha Cricket Association (OCA), expressed his optimism and stated, “Konark Suryas Odisha, our new team in the T-20 Legends League Cricket, represents a significant moment for Odisha. This initiative will enhance the state’s soft power and provide our youth with access to world-class sporting infrastructure.” He also highlighted the importance of private-sector investment in building a sports ecosystem and talent development at the grassroots level.

Mr. Sanjeev Srivastva, Chairperson, SANPRIYA Group, announced plans to further develop a Multi Sports Centre of Excellence in Bhubaneswar, which will serve as a training hub for youth athletes and support the growth of sports culture in the region. This centre will be part of the larger Assotech World project, a major infrastructure initiative aimed at boosting the state’s development. He stated, “With Legends League Cricket and Team Konark Suryas Odisha, we aim to create new opportunities for the youth of Odisha. Our goal is to nurture talent, provide world-class training facilities and contribute to India’s growing sports ecosystem.”

Ms. Enakshi Priyam, spokesperson for SANPRIYA Group, concluded by highlighting the state’s passion for sports. “Odisha has a deep-rooted love for sports and with Team Konark Suryas Odisha, we are aligning with the government’s vision of creating a sports ecosystem that fosters excellence and opportunity.”

Nida Anjum Chelat: Youngest Rider Ever to Complete FEI Endurance World Championship for Seniors

Monpazier/ New Delhi, 9th September 2024: Nida Anjum Chelat, 22-year-old equestrian from Kerala, India, created history by becoming the youngest rider in the world to complete the prestigious FEI Endurance World Championship for Seniors in Monpazier, France. Nida has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first Indian woman to complete the Endurance Championship. Competing against 118 riders from 40 countries, she has solidified her place in Indian equestrian history with this remarkable accomplishment. This prestigious event, conducted by the International Equestrian Federation (FEI), is a landmark moment for Indian equestrian sports. Nida’s remarkable journey saw her navigate a rigorous vetting process and tough competition from global equestrian powerhouses such as the UAE, Bahrain, Spain, France, Italy etc, countries known for their deep-rooted equestrian traditions and facilities. A total of 45 participants only successfully managed to complete the race.

nida rider

Riding her 12-year-old mare, Petra del Rey, Nida completed the 160 km course in just 10 hours, 23 minutes overcoming challenges that included six gruelling loops, with distances ranging from 20 to 38 kilometers. During the championship, 73 horses were eliminated.

The competition, renowned for its extreme demands on endurance, skill, and the synergy between horse and rider, required competitors to complete six challenging loops with rest periods, where the health and fitness of the horses were critically assessed. Nida finished 61stin the first stage, 56th in the second, 41st in the third stage, 36th in the fourth stage, 27th in the fifth stage and completed the championship at an impressive 17th place overall, with an average speed of 16.09 km per hour. With the Indian flag adorned on her helmet and jersey, Nida carried the nation’s pride with every stride, raising the tricolor high on the global equestrian stage and embodying the spirit of India’s spirit and determination.

According to FEI guidelines, the welfare of the horse is of utmost importance. Both horses and riders must be fit, competent, and in good health before they are allowed to compete. The competition consisted of six loops with distances of 38.65 km, 20.22 km, 31.72 km, 20.22 km, 23.12 km, and 26.07 km, requiring an average riding speed of 18 km per hour. The first three loops allow a 40-minute rest period for the horse each time, while the 4th and 5th loops allow 50 minutes each. After each loop, expert veterinarians assess the horses’ health and fitness. If a horse’s health is found to be compromised, the rider is disqualified.

“It has been an incredible honor to represent India at the FEI Endurance World Championship for Seniors. The experience has been both challenging and exciting, but the support and love I’ve received have inspired me to give my best. This is a proud moment for me and my country, said Nida Anjum Chelat.

This achievement follows Nida’s historic completion of the FEI Equestrian World Endurance Championship for Juniors and Young Riders last year, where she finished a 120 km course in record time. Nida was also the first Indian woman to achieve the 3-star rider status by successfully completing 160 km ride more than once.

Nida’s love for horses began during her childhood in Dubai, where she resides with her parents. Her passion for equestrian sports led her to win the prestigious Gold Sword at the Abu Dhabi Endurance Championship while still in the 12th grade. Her journey has been greatly shaped by her mentor, the renowned horse trainer and rider Ali Al Muhairi. Nida’s personal trainer is Takhat Singh Rao. Dr. Mohamed Shafi, is the Veterinary Consultant. Nida is currently pursuing a Master’s in Management and International Development in Spain. A native of Malappuram District, Kerala, Nida is the daughter of Dr. Anvar Ameen Chelat, Managing Director of the Regency Group, and Minnath Anvar Ameen. Her sister is Dr. Fida Anjum Chelat.

With this historic completion, Nida Anjum Chelat has once again brought immense pride to India and serves as an inspiration to aspiring equestrians across the nation.

Bahrain, UAE, secured individual medals in gold and silver respectively, while France and China emerged as the team winners for gold and silver respectively.

Repsol Honda Team and Luca Marini forge ahead

MotoGP 2024 Sprint Race Round 13 Gran Premio di San Marino e della Riviera de Rimini

respol honda

Misano, September 09, 2024: A day of gathering data for Luca Marini and the Repsol Honda Team as they worked to overcome changeable track conditions in Misano. Joan Mir withdraws.

Luca Marini was once again the lone representative of the Repsol Honda Team, the Italian working away and gathering much needed data undeterred. Track conditions at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli would vary throughout the day, grip dropping as the temperature at the track climbed ever higher. Qualifying in 21st left the local rider with work to do in the Sprint.

Head down when the lights went out, Marini made an aggressive start to try and break away from Bradl and Nakagami early. The Sprint in Misano would see a number of riders receive track limit warning, the #10 keeping it under control as he crossed the line in 18th.

Joan Mir was hopeful of returning to the track on Saturday after an evening of improvements but with his condition worsening in the morning, and following the advice of the medical team, he withdrew from the remainder of the San Marino GP. His goal is to return for the Monday Test.

Sunday’s full-length San Marino Grand Prix is scheduled to start at 14:00 Local Time and run across 27 laps.

Luca Marini (18th)

“I think the conditions on track changed a lot today. In the morning the grip was really good, even for us where it’s usually one of our weak points but in the race with the higher temperature the grip was less. The rear dropped more than I was expecting in the Sprint. Overall, it was a tough day and we have to keep on working to see what we can do for tomorrow in the long race.”

 San Marino GP – Sprint Result

 

Pos. Rider Num Nation Points Team Constructor Time/Gap
1 Martin Jorge 89 SPA 12 Pramac Racing Ducati 19:56.502
2 Bagnaia Francesco 1 ITA 9 Ducati Lenovo Team Ducati 1.495
3 Morbidelli Franco 21 ITA 7 Pramac Racing Ducati 1.832
4 Bastianini Enea 23 ITA 6 Ducati Lenovo Team Ducati 2.041
5 Marquez Marc 93 SPA 5 Team Gresini Racing MotoGP Ducati 6.469
6 Acosta Pedro 31 SPA 4 Red Bull GASGAS Tech 3 KTM 6.796
7 Binder Brad 33 RSA 3 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing KTM 9.979
8 Miller Jack 43 AUS 2 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing KTM 10.726
9 Quartararo Fabio 20 FRA 1 Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Yamaha 11.015
10 Marquez Alex 73 SPA 0 Team Gresini Racing MotoGP Ducati 11.352
11 Vinales Maverick 12 SPA 0 Aprilia Racing Aprilia 11.658
12 Espargaro Aleix 41 SPA 0 Aprilia Racing Aprilia 12.083
13 Zarco Johann 5 FRA 0 LCR Honda Honda 21.119
14 Espargaro Pol 44 SPA 0 KTM Test Team KTM 21.542
15 Oliveira Miguel 88 POR 0 Trackhouse Racing Aprilia 21.995
16 Fernandez Augusto 37 SPA 0 Red Bull GASGAS Tech 3 KTM 23.442
17 Fernandez Raul 25 SPA 0 Trackhouse Racing Aprilia 24.280
18 Marini Luca 10 ITA 0 Repsol Honda Team Honda 24.747
19 Rins Alex 42 SPA 0 Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Yamaha 24.873
20 Nakagami Takaaki 30 JPN 0 LCR Honda Honda 25.154
21 Di Giannantonio Fabio 49 ITA DNF Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team Ducati DNF
22 Bezzecchi Marco 72 ITA DNF Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team Ducati DNF
23 Bradl Stefan 6 GER DNF HRC Test Team Honda DNF

Spolto, the SportsTech Startup, Surpasses Dollar1M Funding Milestone with Latest Investment

Andrew Johnston, Co-founder and CEO of Let Share led the latest investment round, which included various sports enthusiasts and investors from India and Sweden.

Team Image - Spolto

06th September 2024: Spolto, an Indo-Swedish SportsTech startup, has successfully closed its latest funding round, bringing its total raised capital to an impressive $1 million (INR 9 crore). The startup, founded in 2021 by Safa Soltani, with Divesh Nathani as Partner & COO, is on a mission to revolutionize sports access across urban India.

The recent round saw an investment of USD 160K (INR 1.35 crore), led by Andrew Johnston, Co-founder & CEO of Let Share, a Sweden-based venture. Johnston, a seasoned entrepreneur with a passion for sports, recognized the immense potential in Spolto’s vision to transform India’s sports landscape.“India represents a massive opportunity in the world of sports and technology. The country’s vibrant sports culture and technological advancements present an unprecedented landscape for growth and innovation. Spolto is at the forefront of this transformation, and I am excited to support their vision and journey.” said Johnston.

This funding round also attracted investments from sports enthusiasts and entrepreneurs from both India and Sweden, highlighting the growing international interest in India’s evolving sports ecosystem.

Since its inception, Spolto has established partnerships with over 1,200 coaches and academies across 12 sports in Maharashtra, making it one of India’s largest sports hubs. By offering access to a wide array of sports, from tennis and swimming to badminton and gymnastics, Spolto is working to diversify sports participation beyond the traditional focus on cricket and football to new-age game like pickleball. With this fresh infusion of capital, Spolto plans to scale its services, aiming to reach even more urban communities. The startup’s goal is to foster grassroots sports development and recreational skill-building, making sports an integral part of everyday life for urban Indians.

“At Spolto, we’re committed to expanding access to sports in urban India, helping individuals of all ages and backgrounds discover the joy and benefits of sports. This funding will enable us to grow our platform and empower more people to embrace an active lifestyle,” said Safa Soltani, Founder & CEO of Spolto and Divesh Nathani, COO of Spolto.

The company is also set to enhance its digital presence, addressing the needs of the new-age Indian consumer. With a focus on accessibility and convenience, Spolto aims to become the go-to platform for sports skill development in India’s urban centers.

Onto the next one – Repsol Honda Team regroup in Misano

respol honda

Misano, September 05, 2024: It’s non-stop action for Joan Mir and Luca Marini as they prepare to remount their Repsol Honda Team RC213Vs on the Italian coast for the San Marino GP.

Straight back on the road as the MotoGP World Championship travels for Aragon in Spain to Misano for Round 13 – the Gran Premio di San Marino e della Riviera di Rimini. A track familiar to all of the grid, its 4.23 kilometres and 16 corners hosted the Repsol Honda Team’s most recent 1-2 finish in 2021.

The Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli is one of the most consistent on the calendar for Joan Mir, taking a pair of second place finishes there in 2020 on his way to the MotoGP crown. After returning to the points in Aragon, the #36 is hungry for more in Misano and to confirm some of the learnings he and the team uncovered last time out.

Home hero Luca Marini is eager to get out on track in front of the home crowd as he aims to shake off a run of bad luck. The Italian has made clear progress throughout the year and has continued to put solid weekends together race after race. Everything is in place for Marini to enjoy another weekend of progress at home.

Stefan Bradl will join the grid for his fifth wildcard appearance of the year.

Following the weekend, the Premier Class will remain on the Adriatic Coast for the last in-season test of the year. An important appointment for all of the Repsol Honda Team.

Joan Mir

“We are going to get to know Misano very well over the next few weeks! It’s a good circuit to ride and you can learn a good amount there, we know a little bit of what to expect after our one day of running a few weeks ago. From Aragon we got some very good information about the bike and our situation, so all these days in Misano will give us an opportunity to assess that deeper. As always, we head into the weekend looking to make the most of very lap.”

Luca Marini

“Misano is always an enjoyable weekend with the home fans supporting me so I am looking forward to it a lot, it’s a pleasure to ride in front of everyone there. The last weekends have been positive until Sunday, so we have to make sure that everything is correct to take the most of any opportunity that comes up. Our test there from after Austria will allow us to double check some things but we know what our targets are for the weekend. Let’s put together a good weekend so that we have a lot of data for Monday’s test.”

Saudi Arabia’s summer of esports highlights success of Esports World Cup and New Global Sport Conference

saudi

Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, 28 August 2024: The Esports World Cup – watched by a total of 500 million viewers worldwide – and New Global Sport Conference have concluded in Riyadh, as Saudi Arabia ushered in a new era for gaming and esports.

The summer of esports saw HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, present Saudi Arabian club Team Falcons with the Esports World Cup Club Championship trophy on Sunday.

Featuring the best clubs, the best players and the best games, the inaugural Esports World Cup hosted 22 tournaments across 21 titles for a duration of two months. A total prize pool of $60 million, the largest prize pool in the history of esports, was on offer for the tournament held at Boulevard Riyadh City.

The second edition of the New Global Sport Conference 2024 (NGSC) heard how esports, the new global sport, will merge traditional sport and its modern counterpart in a form of entertainment catalyzing people from all sectors of society and sparking economic growth.

The conference gathered more than 60 global speakers and 200 CEOs among 1,200 attendees from gaming, esports, technology, sports, entertainment, business and investment at the Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh At Kingdom Center.

His Royal Highness Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Sultan, Chairman of the Saudi Esports Federation, said: “The Esports World Cup and New Global Sport Conference have ushered in a new dawn for gaming and esports across the globe, as well as Saudi Arabia’s sports and entertainment sectors. There is so much to be excited about and so much potential to fully capture.

“As I mentioned in my opening remarks at the New Global Sport Conference on Sunday, Saudi Arabia’s commitment to gaming and esports is unwavering. We believe in the transformative power of gaming and esports – not just as forms of entertainment but as catalysts for economic growth, social cohesion, and cultural exchange. Our faith in this industry is not just about its potential but also the people who drive it – the players, the fans, the publishers, the developers, the leaders who envision its future.

“As the Kingdom prepares to host the first-ever Olympic Esports Games in 2025, we look back at this summer of esports with pride and accomplishment while looking forward to what is to come with immense anticipation and belief.”

Ralf Reichert, CEO of the Esports World Cup Foundation, the hosting entity of the Esports World Cup, said: “The Esports World Cup has been a milestone moment in Saudi Arabia’s mission to elevate esports and attract a broader global audience.

“The success of the Esports World Cup has simultaneously been the success of Riyadh. Successfully hosting such a prestigious event highlights the capital city’s commitment to blending cutting-edge technology with a vibrant gaming culture. By creating an exceptional environment for both players and fans, Riyadh has set a new standard for global esports, proving that innovation and passion can transform any city into a hub for digital excellence.

“The second edition of the New Global Sport Conference was also another prime example of this. My panel appearance with Magnus Carlsen, the chess grandmaster and five-time World Champion, showed precisely the vast potential of merging traditional games and sports with their digital futures.”

In addition to Carlsen, the former Manchester United and France international footballer Patrice Evra was another celebrity attendee at NGSC. Evra shared his thoughts on a panel called ‘Becoming a Modern Sports Hero – Sports, Gaming and the Relentless Pursuit of Excellence’ alongside Gabriel “FalleN” Toledo, the Brazilian national Counter-Strike II player for FURIA Esports. Carlsen appeared with Reichert on a fascinating panel session entitled entitled ‘Chess, Esports: Strategy Redefined Together – From the Chessboard to the Digital Arena’.

Esports World Cup 2024 in numbers

  • Total Hours Watched: More than 250 million across all platforms
  • Highest Peak Concurrent Viewership: 3.5 million (League of Legends)
  • Total Viewers: 500 million
  • Tickets Sold: More than 175,000
  • Boulevard Riyadh City Visits: More than 2 million
  • Clubs: More than 200
  • Players: More than 1,500

The Future is Bright: Our Ambitions Are Limitless

His Royal Highness Prince Faisal said: “The success of the Esports World Cup and New Global Sport Conference is just the beginning. Our ambition to become a global hub for gaming and esports knows no bounds. The Kingdom’s involvement at regional and international levels will become even more influential over the next few years. Recent strategic initiatives and investments in gaming and esports have galvanized the ecosystem, helping to create today’s vibrant and opportunistic landscape.

“With continued support and investment, Saudi Arabia is poised to become the world’s go-to destination for gaming and esports by 2030. We are actively seeking and establishing partnerships with international esports organizations, companies, and influencers to facilitate knowledge transfer, expertise, and global integration.”

This is Just the Beginning

His Royal Highness Prince Faisal added: “As we look to the future, it’s clear that the best is yet to come. The Esports World Cup’s success, coupled with the insights and innovations shared at the New Global Sport Conference, proves that we are on the right path. Together, we will continue to elevate the sector, contribute meaningfully to its development, and shape its future on a global scale.
“To everyone who contributed to the success of the Esports World Cup and the New Global Sport Conference, thank you. Your dedication and passion have set a new standard for the industry, and we look forward to what the future holds. Together, we will build a brighter, more connected world through the power of esports and gaming.”

5K Curtain Raiser for 13th NMDC Hyderabad Marathon: 8,000 Runners, 14 NGOs Join

Hyderabad, August 26, 2024: The 5K- Curtain Raiser” of the 13th Edition of NMDC Hyderabad Marathon powered by IDFC FIRST Bank was held at Hitex on Saturday morning, August 24, 2024.

marathona1

The 5K run organized by the Hyderabad Runners Society, India’s first institutionalised running group was flagged off by Mr Jayapal Reddy – Executive Director, Shri. Nirish Lalan

Head Branch Banking South, IDFC FIRST Bank, Abhijeet Madnurkar President of Hyderabad Runners and Dr. Madhumati Sanjay, Assistant Race Director, NMDC, Rajesh Vetsa, Race Director of Hyderabad Marathon 2024.

The 5K run was organised by the Hyderabad Runners Society, that was founded with the idea of helping people lead active lifestyles and making running a preferred form of fitness activity. The society is built on the three pillars of advocacy, training, and events. It promotes healthy living and community fitness through its unique training programs, partnering with diverse sections of society.

marathon4

8000 runners participated in today’s 5K – Curtain Raiser to the 13th edition of the NMDC Hyderabad Marathon powered by IDFC FIRST Bank informed Mr. Rajesh Vetcha, Race Director – NMDC Hyderabad Marathon 2024.

Several participants from 14 NGOs such as Amma Social Welfare Association, Blood Warriors, who support Thalassemia Children; Gift of Sight, Goonj, Alokit which supports the education of children in urban slums, Community Poor Water, Cardiac Rehab and others and raised awareness for their causes.

The children of Amm Society Welfare spread a thought-provoking message such as if you are tired of running, run with heart; “In both running and learning, progress comes one step at a time. The distance you cover today, builds the strength tomorrow” etc.

The main event, the Running Festival will be held tomorrow, August 25, 2 . Full and Half-marathons will be flagged off at 4.30 a.m. and 5.30 a.m. respectively at People’s Plaza, Necklace Road. The 10K run will also be flagged for tomorrow at 7 a.m. at Hitex, Madhapur, he added

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Rajesh Vetcha said, “Hyderabad Runners Society is proud to lead the active lifestyle movement and the 13th edition of the Marathon is a step in that direction with the World Athletics Basic Label placing it on the international running calendar. This year, we have seen a growth in the number of participants to about 25,500, coming from almost 30 states and UTs as well as international Elite Athletes participation. We are eager to make them experience world-class race facilities on this World Athletics Label Race. The Prize money across all categories is about ₹48 lakhs”.