The 15th edition of the Dream Runners Half Marathon (DRHM), supported by Hexaware as the title sponsor for the seventh consecutive year, brought together 7,339 runners in Chennai, reinforcing the event’s position as one of the city’s largest community sporting initiatives. Along with promoting fitness and healthy living, this year’s marathon raised more than Rs 50 lakh to support organizations working in the areas of disability, rehabilitation and survivor care.
Held on July 19, the marathon attracted participants from across age groups and experience levels, including seasoned athletes, first-time runners and members of the defence forces, police and civic services. The event featured professionally timed races in the 10 km and 21.1 km categories and is certified by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS), ensuring internationally recognised race standards.
Preparations for the marathon began several months before race day. Dream Runners organised free training sessions through its 14 chapters across Chennai, helping participants improve endurance, strength, recovery, nutrition and injury prevention. The structured programme enabled runners of varying fitness levels to prepare for the event while encouraging greater participation in distance running. Environmental sustainability also remained a key focus. Volunteer ploggers followed the race route throughout the event, collecting litter and helping keep the course clean, reflecting the organisers’ commitment to responsible event management.
Speaking on the occasion, Nidhi Alexander, Chief Marketing Officer of Hexaware, said the company’s long-standing partnership with the marathon goes beyond supporting a sporting event. She noted that the initiative helps generate sustained funding for organisations serving communities across Tamil Nadu while bringing together thousands of runners, volunteers and supporters every year.
The funds raised through this year’s marathon will be distributed among three non-profit organisations working in different areas of social welfare. Freedom Trust will use the support to provide prosthetic limbs, mobility aids and rehabilitation services to amputees, particularly in rural India, helping individuals regain mobility and independence.
Vijay Human Services will continue its work with children and young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities by supporting early intervention programmes, special education, vocational training and rehabilitation services. The International Foundation for Crime Prevention and Victim Care (PCVC) will utilise the funds to strengthen support for survivors of domestic violence, gender-based violence and acid attacks by providing counselling, legal assistance and long-term rehabilitation services.
Rajeev Prasad, Race Director of Dream Runners, said organising the 15th edition required months of planning and close coordination among volunteers, sponsors, city authorities and event partners. He thanked all participants and stakeholders for contributing to another successful edition of the marathon.
Over the years, the Dream Runners Half Marathon has grown from a city-based running event into a major platform that combines fitness, community engagement and social responsibility. Its annual proceeds continue to support organisations delivering healthcare, rehabilitation, education and social services to vulnerable communities.
Hexaware said its continued association with the event reflects the company’s commitment to promoting employee wellness, community participation and meaningful social impact. As a global technology and business process services company, Hexaware works with enterprises worldwide to accelerate digital transformation while supporting initiatives that contribute to the well-being of the communities in which it operates.
