Kolkata Police Half Marathon 2026 becomes official qualifier for World Masters Athletics Championships

The qualifier slots will be available in both the Half Marathon and 10 km categories, marking the first time an event in India recognized by the Masters Athletics Federation of India (MAFI) will offer participants the opportunity to represent the country at the global championship.

The race, organised by the Kolkata Police in association with the Transport Department of West Bengal and promoted by Gamechangerz, will be held on January 18, 2026.

Kolkata Police Commissioner Manoj Kumar Verma, IPS, said the initiative reflects the city’s commitment to discipline and community responsibility.

“Safe Drive Save Life has grown from a message to a civic habit, and this Half Marathon is its living proof,” he said.

Additional Commissioner of Police (IV) Pandey Santosh, IPS, said the event aims to bring “world-class precision” to the city’s running culture. “With MAFI sanctioning and World Masters qualifier status, this race is not just an event; it is a pathway for Indian runners to step onto the world stage,” he said.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Yeilwad Shrikant Jagannathrao, IPS, highlighted the extensive planning behind the event, including route audits, adaptive signals, safety systems and medical support, to ensure smooth movement for both athletes and the city.

MAFI Secretary General D. David Premnath said the recognition sets a new benchmark for masters athletics in India. “Participants will be given the opportunity to represent India in the 10K and 21K categories based on qualifying norms for Daegu 2026,” he said, adding that clean sport and accurate timing would be key standards.

Gamechangerz Founder Director Dilip Jayaram described the event as a “blueprint for performance with purpose”, while India Cares CEO Meena Dave said the 2026 edition will also integrate sustainability and philanthropy through civil society participation and zero-waste operations.

The World Masters Athletics Championships is open to athletes aged 35 and above, competing in standard five-year age groups. Eligible athletes must be registered with MAFI, which will process entries based on official timing results from qualifying events, including the Kolkata Police Half Marathon.