Rourkela: The first-ever ‘Rourkela Half Marathon-2026’ will be held January 24, 2026, coinciding with Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) foundation day celebrations.
The logo, mascot, website, theme song, and jersey of the marathon were launched by director in-charge, Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP), Alok Verma at a media meet on November 8 here at the Indo-German Club.
Rourkela Steel Plant is a unit of SAIL.
According to a RSP release, the marathon, themed ‘Run for Prosperity’, is AIMS (Association of International Marathons and Distance Races) certified and designed to meet international standards. The event aims to promote fitness, community bonding, and a healthy lifestyle among residents of Rourkela and beyond.
Addressing the gathering, Verma announced that the marathon will be an annual event and feature four categories to encourage wide participation. “Rourkela is known as the Steel City—symbolisng industrial strength and excellence in hockey. Now, we want Rourkela to be recognised for its Half Marathon and excellence in athletics as well,” he said.
ED (HR) and Chairman of the Organising Committee Tarun Misra elaborated on the marathon’s details.
The unveiling ceremony was made lively by the playful entry of the marathon mascots, who danced and posed with the audience.