A whooping 5.5 crore raised for charity so far at Delhi Half Marathon

New Delhi: This year's Delhi Half Marathon to be run on November 20 has raised Rs 5.50 crore till now for charity with contributions from individuals and corporates, the organisers said today.

While the event continues to place emphasis on the sport of distance running, philanthropy was a fundamental area of focus at each edition.

The organisers said the contributions will keep coming till November 30.

"Currently, 112 teams fielded by 71 corporates have registered to run. 48 Care Champions are raising an average of Rs 2.50 lakh each. Over 175 Individuals and 40-plus children and youth are raising funds for the cause they believe in. We sincerely hope that the event this year help raise more than last year," a release said.

"India Cares, the event's Philanthropy Partner works tirelessly with CSOs/NGOs, companies, and individuals from as early as July and continue weeks after Race Day to communicate the work and impact of the Airtel Delhi Half Marathon to so many in society," it added.

Delhi Half Marathon, promoted by Procam International, will see in action over 34,000 participants from across the world.

The 2015 edition saw a whopping 98 per cent jump in funds raised by the participating Civil Society Organisations over 2014. Rs 7.26 crores raised in ADHM 2015 impacted over 150,000 people directly and indirectly across various causes and initiatives during the past year.

Interestingly despite popular belief, it is not the cause of education that has touched more lives last year. It is regarding health-related benefits people have availed most. 90,716 people were impacted through direct medical care and medical camps; followed by care for 25,182 elders; 11,490 children were educated; 8,710 persons with disability supported; 8,380 individuals enhanced their livelihoods; 3,934 children were taken care off in various foster homes.

There were also environmental awareness camps; community urinals and toilets built in schools; mid-day meals provided for a day or a month; life skills training imparted; teacher training modules developed; educational materials distributed; sports days scheduled.

Nitish Sahni, a Class X student at Shri Ram School, already a passionate runner, has raised over a lakh of rupees for the visually impaired as he did not want to take a break in helping people just because of his Board Examinations.

Meanwhile, G Lakshmanan and Swati Gadhave are ready to give their best at the race.

Lakshmanan, an Army runner has bagged numerous titles like TCS World 10K Bengaluru 2016, ADHM 2013, and the Cochin Marathon. His timing at Cochin Marathon (1:04:38sec) was his personal best.

Among women, Swati won the TCS World 10K Bengaluru 2016 with a timing of 34:45, and the 10000m Federation Cup 2016.

The race will flag off from Jawaharlal Stadium.