Erode Marathon 2026 - 5th Edition

The Erode Marathon 2026 marks the fifth edition of this community-powered road-running event in Erode, Tamil Nadu. Organised by Erode Runners Club, which established its first marathon in 2022, the event brings local runners, beginners and experienced distance athletes together in one of western Tamil Nadu's growing endurance-running communities.

2026 programme

The current-edition official registration portal offers five options: 5K Majaa Run (non-timed), 5K timed run, 10K timed run, 21.1K half marathon, and the Twenty Miler (32.18 km). The Twenty Miler is an exact 20-mile distance, not a 30K run; ARC's distance selector has no corresponding 32.18K option, so the category is explained here rather than being inaccurately labelled as 30K. Timed runners must pass all course timing mats. The organiser publishes cut-off limits of 4 hours 30 minutes for 32.18K, 3 hours 30 minutes for the half marathon, 2 hours for 10K and 1 hour for 5K. The Majaa 5K does not issue timed certificates.

Important date, venue and start-time information

The organiser's official 2026 announcement and registration artwork confirm Sunday 22 November 2026 as race day. The precise 2026 start and finish venue and individual flag-off times remain unannounced in the organiser's FAQ, so ARC correctly marks the start time as TBA. The map marker is a general Erode city locator, not a confirmed venue. The organiser lists Erode Arts and Science College as a venue partner, but that does not by itself confirm the actual start point. Check the final participant briefing before travel.

Eligibility and race conditions

The minimum ages are 8 for the Majaa 5K, 10 for timed 5K, 15 for 10K, and 18 for the half marathon and Twenty Miler. Applicants for the Twenty Miler must provide a finishing result from a half marathon completed between 18 October 2025 and 19 October 2026. Official registration terms do not permit entry transfers, race-day sign-ups or refunds. International competitors have separate award eligibility rules, so review the registration guidance carefully.

Training and race support

Runners receive confirmation by email after successful payment and can join the organiser's training WhatsApp group. The organiser plans water and isotonic drinks, fruit, salt and basic first aid at approximately 2.5 km intervals, subject to the final route, along with ambulance coverage, course marshals, medical staff and physiotherapy support. Registrants should check the organiser's email updates for the confirmed course, flag-offs, race-kit collection, final deadline and logistics.