Kolkata : The Kolkata Police on Wednesday announced that the 6th Kolkata Police Safe Drive Save Life Half Marathon (KPSDSL) has been accorded the status of an official qualifying event for the World Masters Athletics Championships 2026, to be held in Daegu, South Korea from August 22 to September 3, 2026.
For the first time, the Half Marathon (21K) and 10K categories will serve as qualifiers for Indian athletes aged 35 years and above, marking a major milestone for competitive distance running in the country. The event, organised in association with the Transport Department, Government of West Bengal and promoted by Gamechangerz, is scheduled for January 18, 2026.
Senior Police Officials Highlight Significance
Kolkata Police Commissioner Manoj Kumar Verma, IPS, said the initiative reinforces the city’s commitment to discipline, compassion and civic responsibility. “Safe Drive Save Life has grown from a message to a civic habit, and this marathon is its living proof,” he said.
Additional Commissioner of Police (IV) Pandey Santosh, IPS, noted that the race has been designed to meet world-class standards with uniformed pacers, certified routes and extensive medical support. “With MAFI sanctioning and World Masters qualifier status, the event becomes a pathway for Indian runners to compete globally,” he added.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Yeilwad Shrikant Jagannathrao, IPS, said preparations for the race include detailed route audits, adaptive signals and priority crossings to ensure smooth traffic movement while allowing athletes a safe and fast course.
MAFI Confirms First Recognised Qualifier in India
D. David Premnath, Secretary General of the Masters Athletics Federation of India (MAFI), confirmed that this is the first-ever MAFI-recognised event in India that will enable athletes to qualify for the World Masters Championships in both the 10K and Half Marathon categories. He said the sanction reaffirms India’s commitment to global standards in course accuracy, timing and clean sport.
Focus on Sustainability and Social Impact
Dilip Jayaram, Founder Director of Gamechangerz, said the marathon integrates performance, purpose and sustainability, with zero-waste operations and opportunities for runners to support social causes through India Cares.
Meena Dave, CEO, India Cares, said the 2026 edition will ensure complete waste management while promoting road safety through civil society participation.
Eligibility and Entry Process
World Masters Athletics events are open to athletes aged 35 and above, competing in five-year age categories. Indian athletes must be registered with MAFI, the official affiliate responsible for entries into global masters championships.
KPSDSL 2026 will serve as the official performance benchmark for Indian athletes aiming to qualify in the 10K and 21K categories for the Daegu Championships.
