Kolkata, Nov 19: In a landmark announcement, the Kolkata Police confirmed that the sixth edition of the Kolkata Police Safe Drive Save Life Half Marathon (KPSDSL) will serve as an official qualifying event for the World Masters Athletics Championships 2026, scheduled in Daegu, South Korea, from August 22 to September 3, 2026.
For the first time in India, the Half Marathon and 10 km categories of the event will allow eligible athletes aged 35 and above to qualify for the world championships under the sanction of the Masters Athletics Federation of India (MAFI). The race will be held on January 18, 2026, and is expected to significantly elevate the status of competitive distance running in Kolkata as well as the country.
Organised by the Kolkata Police in association with the Transport Department, Government of West Bengal, and promoted by Gamechangerz, the event blends athletic excellence with civic responsibility under the “Safe Drive Save Life” initiative.
Leadership Speaks
Shri Manoj Kumar Verma, IPS, Learned Commissioner of Police, Kolkata, said the marathon reflects the city’s commitment to discipline and civic values.
“Safe Drive Save Life has grown from a message to a civic habit. This Half Marathon demonstrates how collective responsibility on the road can inspire an entire city,” he said.
Shri Pandey Santosh, IPS, Additional Commissioner of Police (IV), highlighted the technical and quality benchmarks set for the event.
“With MAFI sanctioning and qualifier status, this race is a pathway for Indian runners to compete on the global stage. Every aspect—from pacers to route accuracy—has been designed to international standards,” he noted.
Shri Yeilwad Shrikant Jagannathrao, IPS, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic), emphasised the extensive planning behind ensuring a seamless race.
“A marathon of this scale requires meticulous traffic engineering. Our teams have worked months in advance to ensure athlete safety while keeping the city moving smoothly,” he said.
MAFI Endorsement
Mr. D. David Premnath, Secretary General, MAFI, described the recognition as a historic first.
“This is the first officially recognised event in India offering qualification for the World Masters Championships in the 10K and 21K categories,” he said. “Athletes must meet performance standards and adhere to MAFI regulations for selection.”
He added that the MAFI sanction underscores global standards in course accuracy, timing, age-group protocols and clean sport.
A Race with Purpose
Dilip Jayaram, Founder Director of Gamechangerz, described the event as a blueprint for responsible and sustainable running.
“From world-class performance pathways to zero-waste operations and philanthropic engagement through India Cares, this edition is built on purpose-driven excellence,” he said.
Meena Dave, CEO of India Cares, highlighted the focus on sustainability.
“This year’s edition integrates civil society organisations and ensures a 100% waste-managed event while promoting road safety and community participation,” she stated.
Eligibility for Masters Athletes
World Masters Athletics allows participation from athletes aged 35 and above, competing in five-year age bands. To qualify, athletes must be registered with MAFI, which manages selection and entries for Indian participants. Official timings recorded at the Kolkata Police Safe Drive Save Life Half Marathon will form the basis for qualification in the Half Marathon and 10 km categories.
With its upgraded status and structured competitive pathway, the Kolkata Police Safe Drive Save Life Half Marathon 2026 is poised to become one of India’s premier distance-running events, combining athletic aspiration with civic responsibility on the roads of Kolkata.
