The SJOBA Marathon-2025, one of the region’s most inclusive and eagerly anticipated running events, is set to be held on 26th July 2025, to mark the solemn occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas. Organized by the St John’s Old Boys Association (SJOBA), the event aims to honour the valour and sacrifices of the Indian Armed Forces while promoting messages of remembrance, unity, and environmental responsibility.
Addressing the media at a curtain-raiser press conference held at St John’s High School, Harpal Singh Malvai, President of SJOBA, informed that the marathon will begin at 5 am from the school campus and conclude at the same venue. He added that a prize distribution ceremony will follow to celebrate the spirit of participation and achievement.
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Joining the current president were Mac Sarin, Founder President of SJOBA, and SPS Ghai, Ex-President of the association. The SJOBA team was also accompanied by Sanjeev Agarwal, Managing Director of pharma major Scott Edil, which is the title sponsor for the SJOBA Marathon 2025. During the event, the official marathon T-shirt was unveiled by the dignitaries.
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Malvai further shared, “The marathon is being held on 26th July to commemorate Kargil Day under the powerful motto — Run for the Armed Forces, Run for Peace, Run for the Planet, and in loving memory of Late Fauja Singh, a legend in endurance running and an inspiration to all.”
Danish Singh Mangat, Secretary of SJOBA, added, “We are proud to welcome over 500 participants from across India. The event will feature race categories of 21 km, 10 km, 5 km, and 3 km, open to men and women across all age groups. It’s not just a run — it’s a celebration of health, unity, and national pride.”
Col Harpreet Singh Mann, Race Director, emphasized that comprehensive safety measures and logistics have been implemented. “The route will be fully monitored by marshals, with key intersections secured. Medical support has been arranged in partnership with Fortis Hospital and First Intervention Vehicles (FIVs), with ambulances stationed along the course. Hydration points will be available to keep runners refreshed throughout.”
In a truly inclusive gesture, the event will witness participation from 9 wheelchair-bound runners and several specially-abled individuals, underlining the marathon’s commitment to accessibility and empowerment. Participants range in age from 14 to 80 years, reflecting the wide and enthusiastic support for the cause.
It is noteworthy that SJOBA (St John’s Old Boys Association) is the alumni association of one of Chandigarh’s most prestigious institutions — St John’s High School. SJOBA is deeply committed to social initiatives, including its annual blood donation camp, mentoring of economically challenged students, and contributions to the school through sports facilities and financial assistance.
The SJOBA Foundation also awards scholarships to meritorious students excelling in academics and sports. SJOBA is also well known for organizing the SJOBA Motor Rally, a flagship sporting event that holds an important place in the national motor rallying circuit.
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