Hindustan Zinc Limited (NSE: HINDZINC) has announced the inaugural Vedanta Zinc City Half Marathon, set for September 29, 2024. The event is part of the company’s initiative to fight rural malnutrition, themed #RunForZeroHunger.
The marathon’s official poster was unveiled, showcasing Udaipur’s scenic landscapes, and the blue race-day jersey, inspired by the serene Fateh Sagar Lake, was also revealed in the presence of key dignitaries, including Udaipur Collector Shri Arvind Poswal, Udaipur IG of Police Shri Ajay Pal Lamba, Hindustan Zinc CEO Arun Misra, and Dr. Manoj Soni, founder of Anybody Can Run (ABCR).
The Vedanta Zinc City Half Marathon is now an official member of the Association of International Marathons (AIMS), with AIMS certification. Promoted as India’s most picturesque marathon, the route will take runners through Udaipur’s rich cultural heritage, passing iconic landmarks like Maharana Pratap Smarak, Saheliyon Ki Bari, and Neemuch Mata Mandir hill. Scheduled during the autumn season, the marathon celebrates Udaipur’s natural beauty while addressing the important cause of rural malnutrition.
A unique aspect of the event was a marathon logo portrait created from 1,400 Rubik’s cubes by Sumeet Dwibedy, a Hindustan Zinc employee, who completed it in a record six hours. Well-known sand artist Sand Kaushik also entertained attendees with an artwork narrating Udaipur’s history and the marathon’s goal. Hindustan Zinc Chairperson Priya Agarwal Hebbar joined virtually, expressing her excitement and emphasizing the importance of addressing rural malnutrition and how marathons can unite communities.
During the event, officials praised Udaipur’s cultural significance and discussed the health benefits of running. District Collector Shri Arvind Poswal called the marathon a key addition to Udaipur’s cultural scene, elevating the city to international prominence. Inspector General Shri Ajay Pal Lamba added that the marathon would boost Udaipur’s vibrancy and promote a healthier lifestyle for its residents.
Hindustan Zinc CEO Arun Misra, an avid marathoner himself, shared his passion for the sport, stating, “Running marathons is a great way to unwind and explore new places. The Vedanta Zinc City Half Marathon not only promotes fitness but also supports a noble cause—eradicating rural malnutrition.”
Udaipur, known as Zinc City due to its legacy in zinc mining and production, will host the marathon with categories including the half marathon (21 km), Cool Run (10 km), and Dream Run (5 km). Runners from across the globe are expected to participate.
Hindustan Zinc Limited, a Vedanta Group company, is the world’s second-largest integrated zinc producer and a leader in sustainable practices. With a commitment to achieving Net Zero emissions by 2050, Hindustan Zinc continues to make strides in the metals and mining industry while driving positive social impact, including initiatives like the Vedanta Zinc City Half Marathon to combat malnutrition.