Mangaluru : Mangaluru came alive this morning as more than 3,700 participants joined the NMPA Golden Jubilee 10K Run, transforming the city into a vibrant hub of energy, wellness, and community celebration. Organised to mark the 50th anniversary of the New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA), the event saw runners of all ages and abilities come together in a show of unity and enthusiasm.
From elite athletes to first-time runners, from college students to families running together, from port employees, contract staff to pensioners, from port users to stake holders the spirit of inclusivity defined the morning. The event featured three race categories — 10K, 5K, and 3K — each designed to offer an enjoyable and safe experience. The streets of Mangaluru, specifically Panambur area were lined with cheer zones, music bands, and cultural showcases, creating a festive atmosphere that extended beyond the finish line. Various arrangements were done for the benefit of the runners such as medical support and counters at specific points in the marathon route, refreshments, water etc.
The marathon was flagged off by Dr. A. V. Ramana, Chairman, NMPA, Shri Sudheer Kumar Reddy, Commissioner of Police, Mangalore; Smt. S. Shanthi, Dy. Chairperson, NMPA; Smt. P. Vinitha Sekhar, Customs Commissioner, Mangalore; Shri N. Anandha Kumar (Refinery) Executive Director, MRPL, Shri Padmanabhachar. K, IoFS, CVO-NMPA, and Rev. Dr. Praveen Martis, SJ, VC St Aloysius.
Dr. A. V. Ramana, Chairman of NMPA, addressing the gathering; “Expressed his gratitude to the citizens and young people of Mangalore for participating in the run. He emphasized that the port belongs to the people of Mangalore, just as the city does. He then highlighted the port’s significant progress, noting a record handling of 46 million metric tons and an expected profit of ₹550 crores this year. He underscored the port’s role as the “Maritime Gateway to Karnataka” and its contribution of nearly ₹10,000 crores to the state’s economy.
He emphasised the importance of health and fitness, referencing the saying “Aarogyam paramam bhaagyam” (Health is the greatest wealth). and stressed the need for both mental and physical fitness for everyone, particularly the youth, to help India achieve its economic goals.
He concluded by stating that the NMPA 10K Run is the first step and a “trigger” for the port’s upcoming Golden Jubilee celebrations, which will begin in the month of September 2025. He thanked everyone for their participation, emphasizing the strong relationship between the port and the community.”
The run also witnessed enthusiastic participation from institutions such as St. Aloysius University and Srinivasa University, along with several corporates, port pensioners and stake holders / port users, NMP aided school children and civic groups. Every participant was honoured with a commemorative medal and T-shirt, symbolising their contribution to this historic occasion. Winners in various categories were also awarded under categories (list enclosed). Special runners in the categories from children to senior citizens were recognized for their enthusiasm and spirit in participating in the marathon.
Asit Kulkarni, Organiser of the NMPA Run, expressed gratitude to all who made the event possible:
“The support from NMPA, our partners, the fitness community, and the citizens of Mangaluru has been overwhelming. This event has set a benchmark for what the city can achieve together, and we are confident it will pave the way for many more fitness-led initiatives.”
The NMPA Golden Jubilee 10K Run, executed by Sports Reconnect with strong support from partners, volunteers, and medical teams, successfully placed Mangaluru on the national running map. With over 3,700 participants, it not only celebrated 50 years of NMPA but also ignited a spirit of wellness and unity that will resonate for years to come.

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