CME Soldierathon Pune 4th Edition 2026

The fourth CME Soldierathon brings runners into the College of Military Engineering (CME) campus at Dapodi, Pune, on Sunday 15 November 2026. Organised by Fitistan - Ek Fit Bharat in collaboration with CME Pune, the event commemorates the 246th Corps of Engineers Day (Sappers Day) and creates an unusual opportunity for civilian runners to share a course with Indian Armed Forces personnel.

Course and atmosphere

The organiser describes a route within the military college grounds, passing three lakes, tree-lined sections and forested areas. It is a very different setting from Pune's typical busy street races, combining an endurance challenge with the heritage of the Indian Army's Corps of Engineers. The day also honours soldiers and veterans and supports the work of Pune's Paraplegic Rehabilitation Centre, alongside the Fit India and 'No to Drugs - Yes to Sports' initiatives.

Who can take part

The half marathon and 10 km are timed races, with minimum ages of 18 and 12 respectively. The 5 km run or walk is untimed and open to participants aged 10 and over. The special 1 km Sappers Day celebration walk is a non-competitive option from age 3, intended to include families, older participants and people with disabilities. The organiser says participation is open to eligible Indian civilian and defence entrants, with separate prices for those groups.

Race-day planning

The organiser lists 5:00 am onwards as the race-day flag-off window; check the final category-specific reporting instructions and identification requirements before travelling. This is an operational military campus, so follow the organiser's entry, bib collection and security guidance. Registration is listed as closing 25 October 2026. Both timed race finishers and untimed participants receive certificates appropriate to their category, with race-day hydration, medical and volunteer support planned.