Striders is proud to announce the 12th Edition of the Thane Half Marathon, scheduled to be held on Sunday, 8th February 2026. Featuring race categories of 21K, 10K and 4K, the event continues to reaffirm its stature as one of the Thane’s most prestigious and professionally managed distance running events. Over the past decade, the Thane Half Marathon has evolved into a flagship sporting platform and championing fitness while inspiring individuals across age groups to embrace an active and healthy lifestyle.
Striders is a pioneering sports and fitness organization that has been at the forefront of India’s distance running and endurance sports ecosystem for nearly two decades. Over the last 19 years, Striders has played a important role in conceptualizing, organizing and delivering some of the country’s most respected marathons, half marathons and fitness initiatives, setting high benchmarks in professionalism, safety and community engagement.
The 2026 edition marks a significant milestone with Union Bank of India coming on board as the Title Sponsor of the event. Union Bank of India is one of India’s leading public sector banks, with a strong nationwide presence and a rich legacy of trust, stability and service excellence. The Bank’s association with the Thane Half Marathon underscores its commitment to health, wellness, community engagement and sustainable development, beyond its core banking operations.
Adding immense inspiration and star power to the occasion, renowned fitness icon, supermodel, actor and endurance athlete Mr. Milind Soman will be the star attraction at the marathon. Widely regarded as one of India’s foremost advocates of fitness and active living, Milind Soman has been instrumental in motivating people across the country to embrace running, endurance sports and healthy lifestyles. His presence at the Union Bank of India Thane Half Marathon 2026 as the brand ambassador will serve as a powerful source of motivation for thousands of runners, encouraging them to prioritize fitness, discipline and mental resilience. Milind Soman’s association strongly aligns with the marathon’s ethos of promoting long-term health and wellness through sport.
The T-shirt and Medal Launch Ceremony, held on 22nd January 2026, was graced by the august presence of Mr. Asheesh Pandey, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Union Bank of India, along with other distinguished dignitaries. Addressing the gathering, Shri Pandey passionately underscored the critical role of fitness in everyday life and strongly encouraged officers and staff of Union Bank of India to actively participate in the Thane Half Marathon and embrace an active lifestyle. Drawing from his own personal fitness journey, he lauded the dedication and perseverance of marathon runners, acknowledging their commitment to health, discipline and mental resilience. He expressed his deep appreciation for Striders for consistently creating world-class running platforms. Shri Pandey extended his best wishes to all participants for a successful and inspiring Union Bank of India Thane Half Marathon.
The Thane Half Marathon marks the beginning of a promising association between Striders and Union Bank of India, united by a shared vision of promoting fitness, wellness and community engagement. This first step is envisioned as the start of a sustained and meaningful journey, where both organizations work hand in hand in the years ahead to amplify the impact of fitness-led social transformation.
The 11th Edition of the Union Bank of India Thane Half Marathon witnessed an impressive participation of over 15,000 runners, reflecting the event’s growing popularity and credibility. The 12th Edition is expected to attract enthusiastic participation from elite athletes, seasoned amateurs, fitness enthusiasts and first-time runners alike, further reinforcing its reputation as a professionally managed, inclusive and high-impact sporting event on the distance running calendar. The Half Marathon (21K), 10K and 4K race categories will start from New Horizon School Gate, Hiranandani Estate, Thane. The 21K and 4K races will conclude near the TMC Ground, Hiranandani Estate, Thane, while the 10K race will finish at the New Horizon School Gate.
