The much-anticipated “Soles for Souls” Marathon concluded yesterday with a resounding success, bringing together over 5,000 participants at the historic Island Grounds in Chennai.
Organized by the Council for Leather Exports (CLE), under the sponsorship of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, the event aimed to raise awareness about creating a drug-free society, while simultaneously promoting India’s burgeoning footwear and leather industry.
The marathon, an initiative supported by the Government of Tamil Nadu, was organized in collaboration with the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC), the Greater Chennai Police, and several prestigious educational institutions like Guru Nanak College, Anna University, Madras University, and many more.
The event served as a platform for individuals from various walks of life to unite for a cause that resonates deeply with public welfare.
The marathon featured three race categories:
- 3 km – open to participants aged 8 and above
- 5 km – for individuals aged 12 and above
- 10 km – for those aged 16 and older
Every participant was provided with a T-shirt, Finisher Medal, E-Certificate, and post-race hydration and breakfast.
The aim of the event went beyond the race, focusing on raising awareness about the devastating effects of drug abuse on society, promoting a healthy lifestyle, and encouraging physical activity among participants.
The event fostered a sense of community spirit and camaraderie among the runners, transcending age and professional backgrounds.
On the eve of the marathon, a pre-event expo was held at the Central Leather Research Institute (CLRI), Adyar.
The expo brought together participants and stakeholders, providing them with a comprehensive briefing about the event.
This gathering also highlighted the importance of the cause, ensuring that the message of a drug-free society would be carried forward by participants.
Several prominent figures from the footwear and leather industry addressed the participants, emphasizing the significance of this initiative.
“The Soles for Souls Marathon is the first of its kind organized by CLE. We hope this event inspires participants to promote the marathon’s theme of a drug-free society to their friends, family, and the public, & With the success of this event, we aim to expand this marathon to other major cities like Mumbai, Kolkata, Delhi, Agra, and Kanpur.”
Rajendra Kumar Jalan, Chairman of the Council for Leather Exports
The event garnered significant support from various corporate sponsors, including Kothari Industrial Corporation Limited (KICL), Tata International Limited, Althaf Shoes Pvt Ltd, A.V. Thomas Leather & Allied Products Pvt. Ltd, and PTIET. The Government of Tamil Nadu, through SIPCOT and TTDC, also played a key role in supporting this initiative.
Additionally, several prominent footwear brands such as Kickers, Language, H&S (K H Exports India Pvt Ltd), and Toni Rossi lent their backing to ensure the event’s success.
Their participation underscored the commitment of the leather and footwear industry to causes beyond business, making strides toward a healthier, drug-free society
The “Soles for Souls” Marathon proved to be much more than a race. It was a collective movement towards creating a drug-free society, instilling the values of health, fitness, and social responsibility among participants. As the marathon concluded, it left behind a powerful message: A healthier society begins with individual actions, and with events like this, a better future is within reach.
