Over 3,500 Participants Join the 8th Edition of Dawn to Dusk – D2D Chennai Marathon 2025, Supporting Cancer Institute (WIA)
Over 3,500 Participants Join the 8th Edition of Dawn to Dusk – D2D Chennai Marathon 2025, Supporting Cancer Institute (WIA)
Thiru Ma. Subramanian, Honorable Minister for Health & Family Welfare of Tamil Nadu flagged off the event.
Chennai, October 5, 2025: The city witnessed an inspiring display of endurance, determination, and community spirit at the 8th edition of the Dawn to Dusk (D2D) Chennai Marathon 2025, organized by Neville Endeavours Foundation in aid of the Cancer Institute (WIA), Adyar. More than 3,500 participants across categories came together at the Anna University campus, reaffirming Chennai’s growing reputation as a hub for fitness and philanthropy.
The marathon commenced at 5:00 a.m. with the 25km and 21km runs, officially flagged off by Thiru Ma. Subramanian, Honorable Minister for Health & Family Welfare of Tamil Nadu, along with other distinguished dignitaries including Dr. J. Prakash, Registrar, Anna University, Chennai; Mr. Mike Muralidharan, Chairman, Ethiraj College for Women; Dr. Kalpana Balakrishnan, CEO & Medical Director, Cancer Institute (WIA), Adyar; and Dr. E. Hemanth Raj, Vice-Chairman, Cancer Institute (WIA), Adyar.
Neville Bilimoria, the founder of D2D event a national silver medalist in rowing, and a six-star finisher in the world major marathon and endurance cyclists stated that - The Dawn to Dusk Chennai Marathon holds a unique identity as a community-driven initiative by runners for runners, and cyclists for cyclists, emphasizing participation with a cause. Over the years, the D2D marathon has not only encouraged healthier lifestyles but also championed social causes. This year’s edition continued the tradition by donating the proceeds to the Cancer Institute (WIA), aiding the treatment of underprivileged cancer patients.
The 16km, 10km, 5km, and 3km categories flagged off at 6:00 a.m. witnessed enthusiastic participation, with the starting line graced by eminent personalities such as Dr. C. Sylendra Babu, IPS (Former DGP, Tamil Nadu); Actor Jamshad Cethirakath; Mr. Shabbir Yusufbhai Jamnagarwala, Managing Director, Polyhose India Pvt Ltd (Title Sponsor); and Mr. Vummidi Jithendra, Managing Director, Vummidi Bangaru Jewellers (Event Powered by VBJ since 1900).
Cyclists took over the tracks from 6:20 a.m., embarking on challenging distances of 125km, 100km, 75km, 50km, 25km, and 10km. The cycling event was flagged off by Actor Jamshad Cethirakath, Mr. Srinath Rajam, Director, TVS & TVS Mobility, and Mr. Vikram Cotah, CEO, GRT Hotels & Resorts, adding further encouragement to the passionate cycling community.
The event also dedicated a special segment to children with the Kids Run, catering to age groups from 4 to 17 years. With distances ranging from 400 meters to 10 kilometers, the young runners brought unmatched energy and cheer to the marathon. The Kids Run, held at 7:30 a.m. and 8:15 a.m., was flagged off by Dr. Kannan Pugazhendi, Sports Physician & Founder of SPARRC, and Dr. Kalpana Balakrishnan, CEO & Medical Director, Cancer Institute (WIA), Adyar, inspiring the younger generation to embrace fitness and social responsibility early in life.
Speaking on the occasion, the organizers expressed gratitude to the partners, sponsors, and participants for making the 8th edition a resounding success. Polyhose India Pvt Ltd served as the Title Sponsor, while Vummidi Bangaru Jewellers powered the event, alongside contributions from several institutional and community supporters.
Since its inception, the event has successfully raised over INR 4.42 crores in support of education and medical treatment for underprivileged children, demonstrating the profound impact of sports-led philanthropy. The 2025 edition further strengthened this mission, with the vibrant participation of over 3,500 fitness enthusiasts highlighting how collective effort can fuel both social and personal transformation.
The event concluded with an overwhelming response from participants and spectators alike, with many lauding the flawless organization, energetic atmosphere, and noble cause it supported. As the 8th edition draws to a close, the Dawn to Dusk Chennai Marathon continues to stand as a beacon of hope, resilience, and solidarity—truly embodying its purpose of running and riding for a cause that matters.
