Bengaluru's Anubhav, a renowned name in the Indian racing circuit will be competing in the full marathon (42.2 kms). The 31-years-old winner of various marathons across the country is confident of adding yet another title to his kitty as he takes to the starting line. However, it will not be that easy task for him as he would be up against a strong field of 12,000+, featuring some of India's best marathoners.
Local favourite and two time defending champion Anjali will be the cynosure of all eyes in the female category. Anjali, who is India's fastest female runner in 10k category and has participated in several international events, will be hoping for an encore and to register a rare three-peat at the Kolkata Full Marathon.
In the Half Marathon (21.1 km), it will be a two-way fight between Deepak Bandbe and Shiva Hang, while in the female category; Preeti Rai is touted to take the title.
The eve of the marathon turned out to be an extraordinary as well as motivating day for select marathoners, including two very special runners, 70-years-old Arun Singh and amputee, Uday Kumar as they got a chance to get up close and personal with the IDBI Federal Life Insurance brand ambassador Sachin Tendulkar.
The Master Blaster regaled them with some real life stories from his cricketing days as well urged them to never stop trying and give their best shot on the track on Sunday.
One of the most prestigious events of the country, IDBI Federal Life Insurance Kolkata Full Marathon 2020 will see runners compete in four different categories: Full Marathon (42.2k), Half Marathon (21.1k), Timed 10K and everyone's favourite Fun Run (5k). The Full Marathon will start at 4:30 am, while the half marathon will be flagged off at 6:00 am followed by the 10k and the Fun Run at 7:45am and 8:15 am respectively.
Sachin Tendulkar will flag-off all the categories from the Rangers Ground.
( With inputs from IANS )