In the picturesque city of Udaipur, known for its serene lakes and stunning landscapes, thousands of enthusiastic runners are gearing up to participate in the much-anticipated **Vedanta Zinc City Half Marathon**. Scheduled for **29th September 2024**, this marathon is poised to become one of **India’s most scenic and prestigious running events**, with participants competing across three categories—**5 km, 10 km, and 21 km**. The event, organized by **Hindustan Zinc**, promises to deliver a unique blend of athleticism, social responsibility, and local heritage.
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**A Marathon with a Mission**
The marathon’s theme, **“Run for Zero Hunger,”** reflects a larger purpose beyond the race. It underscores the collective responsibility to fight malnutrition, particularly in rural India. Hindustan Zinc, in alignment with its **sustainability goals**, aims to raise awareness and drive action towards a **malnutrition-free India**, making this marathon a rallying point for a healthier, more equitable society.
**Thousands of Runners in Action**
The marathon will see participation from seasoned runners and amateurs alike, with **thousands of athletes** expected to take part. **Starting from Udaipur Field Club**, the race route will take runners along the tranquil **Fateh Sagar Lake**, through the **breathtaking Aravalli mountains**, and past some of Udaipur’s most iconic landmarks, such as **Maharana Pratap Memorial** and **Neemach Mata Temple**. Participants will be rewarded with **medals made from premium zinc** produced by Hindustan Zinc—a symbol of both achievement and the company’s rich mining legacy.
The unveiling of the race medals took place at a **press conference** attended by prominent figures, including **Arun Mishra**, CEO of Hindustan Zinc, **Dr. Manoj Soni**, founder of **Anybody Can Run (ABCR)**, and **Umesh Manwani**, Secretary of Field Club Udaipur. Hindustan Zinc’s commitment to this marathon is not only an extension of its **social responsibility efforts** but also a testament to the company's leadership in the **metals and mining industry**. The marathon has been **AIMS-certified** (Association of International Marathons), further enhancing its global appeal.
**A Legacy of Zinc and Health**
The inaugural Vedanta Zinc City Half Marathon also serves as a celebration of Udaipur’s title as **Zinc City**, a nod to its **2,500-year history of zinc mining and smelting** that has shaped the city’s identity and contributed to the nation's prosperity since the Bronze Age. The event strengthens Udaipur’s connection to this legacy, with Hindustan Zinc continuing to be a global leader in the industry. The company supplies zinc to over **40 countries** and holds a **75% share** in India’s primary zinc market. With a vision for a sustainable future, Hindustan Zinc has also launched **Ekojenn**, Asia’s first **low-carbon green zinc brand**, and is committed to achieving **net zero emissions by 2050**.
**A Race Ambassador with an Iron Spirit**
Adding to the excitement of the race is its **Race Ambassador**, **IPS Officer Krishna Prakash**, who heads the **Maharashtra Police Force One**. Known for being the **first Indian civil service officer** to complete the **Ironman Triathlon** and achieve success in the **Ultraman World Championship**, Krishna Prakash’s presence will inspire runners to push their limits and embody the spirit of perseverance.
**The Experience for Participants**
To ensure the safety and comfort of all participants, Hindustan Zinc has partnered with **Anybody Can Run (ABCR)** to offer world-class support throughout the event. Special **hydration stations** will be placed along the race route, while **medical stations** staffed by physiotherapists and doctors from **Geetanjali Hospital** will be available at rest points. Additionally, **Udaipur Field Club**, the venue partner, has emphasized its dedication to providing an unforgettable experience, ensuring the highest safety standards for runners.
**CEO's Message: A Call for Health and Community**
At the medal unveiling, **Arun Mishra**, an avid marathoner himself, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, saying, *“The Vedanta Zinc City Half Marathon is more than just a race. It is a movement to inspire people towards a healthier lifestyle while supporting a cause that is critical to the well-being of our nation—eradicating rural malnutrition. We hope this marathon encourages people to join us in this mission for a better future.”*
**A Growing Legacy of Social Responsibility**
Dr. **Manoj Soni**, founder of **Anybody Can Run (ABCR)**, shared the organization’s vision, which goes beyond fitness and encompasses a sense of **community spirit and social responsibility**. “Our goal is not only to organize marathons but also to use these events as platforms to promote social causes. Fitness should be accessible to all, and through our events, we aim to build a culture of active, healthy lifestyles that benefit individuals and society alike,” said Dr. Soni.
**Vedanta Zinc: Leading the Way in Sustainability**
As one of the world’s largest integrated producers of zinc and silver, **Hindustan Zinc** has been recognized by **S&P Global** as the **most sustainable company** in the metals and mining sector, highlighting its **operational excellence, innovation, and commitment to ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) practices**. The company’s role in **global energy transformation** and its efforts to provide **critical metals** essential for a sustainable future reflect its leadership in the industry.
The **Vedanta Zinc City Half Marathon** is set to become a hallmark event not only for Udaipur but for India’s running community. With its emphasis on health, social impact, and heritage, the marathon promises to leave an enduring legacy. The scenic routes, competitive categories, and commitment to **Zero Hunger** make this marathon more than just a race—it's a celebration of **Udaipur’s heritage**, a **symbol of social responsibility**, and a **step towards a healthier nation**.