SKF India, a leading name in industrial bearings, motion solutions, and engineering services, has once again taken the lead as the Title Sponsor of the Goa River Marathon, one of India’s most prominent long-distance running events. For over six years, SKF India has supported the marathon’s mission of promoting community engagement, endurance, and progress through motion.
Organized by the Vasco Sports Club, the marathon will take place on Sunday, December 14, starting and finishing at the Chicalim Panchayat Ground in Goa. With a total prize pool of ₹8 lakh, the event will feature five race categories — Full Marathon (42 km), 20 Miler (32 km), Half Marathon (21 km), 10 km, and 5 km runs — offering something for both amateur and professional runners.
Carrying forward SKF’s philosophy of “Less Friction, More Progress,” this year’s theme, “Pace for Peace,” aims to unite participants from India and around the world in a shared celebration of endurance, harmony, and collective growth. Over the years, the SKF Goa River Marathon has evolved into a marquee event, drawing top athletes and fitness enthusiasts from across the country and abroad.
Commenting on SKF’s continued association, Mukund Vasudevan, Managing Director – Industrial, SKF India, said “We are proud to continue as Title Sponsor of the Goa River Marathon — a true celebration of movement, resilience, and community spirit. The event reflects SKF’s commitment to overcoming friction and driving progress, just as athletes push their limits in pursuit of excellence.”
Echoing this sentiment, Nitin Bandekar, President of the Vasco Sports Club, shared “The enthusiasm this year has been exceptional. We expect close to 7,500 runners from across India and overseas, which will also generate a positive impact on Goa’s tourism sector.” He added that this year’s theme, “Pace for Peace,” carries a powerful message of unity and goodwill in challenging times.
According to Rakesh Unny, Secretary of the Vasco Sports Club, the World Marathon Majors will recognize SKF–GRM race timings, allowing participants to qualify for prestigious international marathons such as London, Boston, New York, and Chicago. To enhance the overall experience, organizers have also planned a Carbohydrate Loading Dinner on the eve of the race and a Post-Race Sports Festival Rave at 4 PM on marathon day.
Founded in 1907, SKF is a global leader in bearings, seals, lubrication systems, and condition monitoring technologies that reduce friction and improve energy efficiency. Operating in around 130 countries with approximately 17,000 distributor locations, SKF reported annual sales of SEK 98,722 million in 2024 and employs more than 38,700 people worldwide. Through innovation and sustainability, the company continues to enable industries to achieve more with less, powering smarter and cleaner progress across the globe.
