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Category: Sports

  • Pinkathon Hosts 5,000 Women With 100 Km Relay and Timed Races

    Milind Soman, Founder, Pinkathon, Ankita Konwar, Founder, Invincible Women, and Dr. Keyur Parekh, President BU Biologics and Strategy Head, Zydus Lifesciences, address participation and preventive health messaging

    Hyderabad, February 15, 2026: More than 5,000 women gathered at People’s Plaza, Necklace Road, for the latest edition of Zydus Pinkathon, participating across timed and ultra distance categories.
    Races included the Raghu Vamsi 3 km, Lifelong 5 km and 10 km runs, alongside 50 km, 75 km, 100 km and a 100 km relay under the Invincible Women platform. The field comprised first time runners, working professionals, senior citizens and experienced endurance athletes.

    In the timed categories, Amala Kalapala won the 3 km in 19:10. Mounika Kalapala secured first place in the 5 km with 27:32. Vadde Navya finished first in the 10 km with a timing of 49:59.
    Milind Soman, Founder, Pinkathon, said, “What stands out in Hyderabad is the comfort with which women are choosing to participate. Whether running in sportswear or traditional attire, the decision to show up and prioritise health is what truly matters. Seeing thousands gather at sunrise, many for their first organised run, reflects how participation is becoming more normalised across communities.”

    The event continued its preventive health messaging with Title Partner Zydus Lifesciences through the Easiest Exam campaign, which promotes a three minute self breast examination as a regular health practice.
    Ankita Konwar, Founder, Invincible Women, said, “Each year we see greater consistency. Women are not just participating once; they’re returning, increasing distances, and setting new personal benchmarks. The ultra categories in particular reflect how endurance running is steadily becoming part of the larger fitness conversation.”

    Dr. Keyur Parekh, President BU Biologics and Strategy Head, Zydus Lifesciences, said, “Our continued association with Zydus Pinkathon reflects our belief that preventive healthcare conversations must extend beyond clinics and hospitals. Zydus is committed to women’s health and the Easiest Exam campaign is dedicated to raising breast cancer awareness while promoting early detection. When thousands of women engage in a shared fitness platform, it creates meaningful opportunities to build awareness around long term well being.”
    The event was supported by the Government of Telangana along with Lotus Herbals, Raghuvamsi, Lifelong, Sirona, Park Hyatt, Fujifilm, SAI, FIT India, Bisleri, Zivame, 3TENX, Inc.5, Akshay Kalpa, Milld, Big FM and Enthusionz. The event was executed by Smiling Tiger Experiences LLP.
    The nationwide season will continue with Delhi on March 8 followed by Pune on April 5.
    At Prittle PrattleNews, featuring you virtuously, we celebrate the commitment and innovation. Led by Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is dedicated to sharing impactful stories that inspire change and create awareness. Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube for more stories that matter.

  • Youth travel brand enters cricket merchandising as Skybags ties up with Chennai Super Kings for 2026 season

    Atul Jain of VIP Industries and KS Viswanathan of Chennai Super Kings say the partnership brings licensed luggage and backpacks closer to fans across India

    Chennai, India, 10 February 2026: A new merchandising partnership in Indian cricket will see Skybags step into the sports space as the Official Luggage Partner of the Chennai Super Kings for the 2026 season, with the launch of a licensed range of luggage and backpacks designed for both the team and its supporters.
    The association marks Skybags’ first foray into sports partnerships, anchored around cricket, and introduces a co branded product line aligned with the visual identity of the Chennai Super Kings. The range includes travel luggage and backpacks developed to combine team branding with everyday functionality, aimed at consumers who travel frequently and follow the sport closely.

    The partnership also reflects a broader outreach strategy by VIP Industries Limited, the parent company of Skybags, to connect with younger consumers through high engagement platforms and sporting culture. Under the agreement, Skybags will be integrated into fan engagement initiatives through the 2026 season, while the co branded merchandise will continue to be retailed across India beyond the end of the cricket league.
    The Skybags and Chennai Super Kings collection will be available through more than 500 retail outlets nationwide, major ecommerce platforms, and official digital channels including the CSK website, CSK app, and the Skybags online store. Consumer pricing for the range begins at INR 4,590 for luggage and INR 1,999 for backpacks.

    Commenting on the partnership, Atul Jain, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of VIP Industries Limited, said cricket occupies a unique place in India’s cultural landscape and that Chennai Super Kings represents consistency and excellence within the sport. He said the association aligns with Skybags’ focus on engaging young, aspirational consumers through platforms they are deeply invested in, and described the partnership as the first step in a wider sports engagement strategy for the brand.
    KS Viswanathan, Managing Director of Chennai Super Kings, said the franchise welcomed Skybags as its Official Luggage Partner and noted that the collaboration adds a new dimension to fan engagement. He said licensed luggage and backpack products provide supporters with another way to connect with the team while extending the CSK brand into everyday use.

    Skybags views the association as part of its longer term involvement in India’s sporting ecosystem, at a time when corporate participation, infrastructure development, and global exposure are contributing to the country’s growth as a sporting market. The brand continues to expand its portfolio across luggage, backpacks, and travel accessories, with an emphasis on design, functionality, and accessibility for Indian consumers.
    At Prittle PrattleNews, featuring you virtuously, we celebrate the commitment and innovation. Led by Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is dedicated to sharing impactful stories that inspire change and create awareness. Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube for more stories that matter.

  • Distance running focus sharpens at Cognizant New Delhi Marathon 2026 with ASICS involvement

    Rajat Khurana, Managing Director, ASICS India and South Asia, and Nagaraj Adiga, CMD, NEB Sports Entertainment, discuss runner preparation, equipment choices, and experience design at the 2026 edition

    Mumbai, 10 February 2026: The Cognizant New Delhi Marathon 2026 will see continued emphasis on runner preparation, equipment, and on ground experience through the ongoing involvement of ASICS, which enters the third year of its association with the event.
    The sportswear brand will support the marathon in its capacity as Official Sports Goods Partner, with a focus on footwear and apparel designed for distance running conditions. The association coincides with growing participation levels and increasing attention among runners towards training consistency, injury management, and recovery.

    For the 2026 edition, ASICS has identified the GEL CUMULUS 28 as the primary running shoe linked to the event. Positioned for everyday training and race use, the model incorporates cushioning and stability features intended to support longer mileage and varied running paces. The shoe includes FF BLAST MAX cushioning, PureGEL heel technology for impact absorption, a breathable engineered mesh upper, and a FLUIDRIDE outsole to aid transition and grip. It is designed for neutral runners seeking a balanced ride across training cycles.

    In parallel, ASICS will also support runners with a race day apparel line aligned to warm weather and high effort conditions. The range includes garments featuring ACTIBREEZE technology, ROAD 2 IN 1 5IN shorts, NAGINO Run adjustable tights, and performance accessories such as caps and socks, aimed at airflow management and comfort during extended activity.
    Commenting on the partnership, Rajat Khurana, Managing Director, ASICS India and South Asia, said the New Delhi Marathon reflects changes in how Indian runners approach the sport, with greater awareness around consistency, injury prevention, and overall wellbeing. He said the continued association allows the brand to remain engaged with runners through equipment design, retail presence, and community oriented programmes linked to training and recovery.

    Nagaraj Adiga, CMD at NEB Sports Entertainment Pvt Ltd, said the objective of the marathon has been to build a professionally managed and inclusive running event across participant categories. He said collaboration with ASICS for the 2026 edition supports this objective by giving runners access to performance oriented products and knowledge resources that aid preparation and race day execution.

    Beyond the event itself, ASICS plans to run supporting initiatives connected to the marathon, including community runs, training support activities, recovery focused interactions, and digital engagement formats. These initiatives are intended to extend runner interaction beyond race day and align preparation with longer term participation in the sport.
    The GEL CUMULUS 28 is available across ASICS exclusive brand stores, select multi brand retail outlets, and online platforms in India.
    At Prittle PrattleNews, featuring you virtuously, we celebrate the commitment and innovation. Led by Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is dedicated to sharing impactful stories that inspire change and create awareness. Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube for more stories that matter.

  • A Trophy Returns to Familiar Classrooms as the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Tour Reaches Former Campuses of Indian Cricketers

    The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Trophy Tour with DP World visited institutions linked to Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube, Abhishek Sharma, Kuldeep Yadav, and Arshdeep Singh under the Class of 26 initiative.

    Navi Mumbai, February 6, 2026: The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Trophy Tour with DP World made a series of campus visits across India, bringing the tournament trophy to educational institutions associated with members of the Indian men’s cricket team. The visits were held under the Class of 26 initiative, which connects students with the academic journeys of current international cricketers.
    The tour began at Pillai College of Engineering in Navi Mumbai, the former college of India’s current T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav. Students and faculty gathered as the trophy was displayed on campus, marking a moment that linked academic life with international sporting achievement. The event was attended by senior representatives from the Mahatma Education Society, institutional leaders, and faculty members. Students participated in cricket themed activities including trivia sessions, tap the ball challenges, and wicket taking contests.

    From Navi Mumbai, the trophy travelled to Rizvi College of Arts, Science and Commerce in Mumbai, the former college of India all rounder Shivam Dube. The visit took place in the presence of dignitaries from the Rizvi Education Society, along with college leadership and faculty. Students interacted with official tournament mascots and took part in on campus cricket engagements.
    Another stop on the tour was Delhi Public School in Amritsar, the former school of India all rounder Abhishek Sharma. The event was attended by his parents Raj Kumar Sharma and Manju Sharma, alongside school officials and faculty members. Students participated in interactive sessions including trivia and skill based challenges.

    The trophy also visited Karam Devi Memorial Academy, the former school of India bowler Kuldeep Yadav. The campus activation was held in the presence of his father, close family associates, school dignitaries, and representatives from the Kanpur Cricket Association. Students engaged in cricket related activities during the visit.
    The final campus stop was Chandigarh University in Mohali, the former college of India bowler Arshdeep Singh. The event was attended by the Executive Director for Student Affairs and Administration, faculty members, and students, who participated in trivia sessions and ball handling challenges.

    Through the Class of 26 initiative, the Trophy Tour highlighted the academic roots of international cricketers while offering students a close view of one of world cricket’s most recognised trophies as India prepares to defend its title on home soil.
    Fans can follow updates from the tour through the official Trophy Tour social media handle.
    At Prittle PrattleNews, featuring you virtuously, we celebrate the commitment and innovation. Led by Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is dedicated to sharing impactful stories that inspire change and create awareness. Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube for more stories that matter.

  • Goa Street Race Set to Decide Title Charge for Hyderabad Black Birds, Says Naga Chaitanya

    Hyderabad Black Birds owner Naga Chaitanya reflects on the one-point gap in team standings, the challenges of the Goa street circuit at Manohar International Airport, and the role of Jon Lancaster, Gabriela Jílková and Mohamed Ryan ahead of the Indian Racing Festival weekend.

    As the Indian Racing Festival prepares for its first-ever street race at Manohar International Airport in Goa on February 14 and 15, 2026, the spotlight is firmly on Hyderabad Black Birds and their owner, Naga Chaitanya. With the championship battle tightening, the Goa round is shaping up to be a defining moment in the season.
    Following a competitive Round 3 at Kari Motor Speedway, Hyderabad Black Birds are placed second in the team standings with 81 points, just one point behind leaders Speed Demons Delhi. The narrow margin has raised the stakes ahead of the transition from traditional circuits to a high-pressure street race format.

    Commenting on the importance of the Goa race, Naga Chaitanya said that street circuits demand a different level of precision and focus. He noted that unlike conventional tracks with run-off areas, the Goa circuit leaves little room for error, making composure and consistency critical through all 12 corners.
    At the centre of the team’s challenge is experienced British racer Jon Lancaster. Chaitanya said Lancaster’s international racing background provides stability under pressure, particularly in conditions where every lap and every second can influence the championship outcome.

    The team is also banking on the analytical strength of Gabriela Jílková, known for her work in GT racing and Formula E development programmes. Chaitanya commented that her discipline and consistency are well suited to the demands of a narrow and technical street circuit.
    Completing the line-up is Indian racer Mohamed Ryan, a former vice-champion who represents the team’s focus on nurturing domestic talent. Chaitanya said Ryan’s familiarity with local conditions and competitive mindset make him a key contributor as the team pushes for the top spot.

    Reflecting on the broader significance of street racing in India, Chaitanya said leading the Hyderabad Black Birds at this stage of the season aligns with his long-standing aim of supporting motorsport growth in the country. He added that formats such as street racing not only test drivers at the highest level but also help create platforms for young Indian talent to gain exposure and inspire future racers.
    The Goa Street Race now stands as a potential turning point, not only for the Hyderabad Black Birds’ title ambitions, but also for the evolution of professional motorsport in India.
    At Prittle PrattleNews, featuring you virtuously, we celebrate the commitment and innovation. Led by Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is dedicated to sharing impactful stories that inspire change and create awareness. Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube for more stories that matter.

  • National final places are decided following two days of competitive play at the BMW Golf Cup 2026

    BMW Group India confirms Harsh Kopakka, Mohan Tayal, Krishnan C Unni and D Nitesh Kumar as qualifiers progressing from the Hyderabad rounds

    The qualification phase of the BMW Golf Cup 2026 progressed with the conclusion of two days of competitive amateur play, resulting in four golfers securing places in the upcoming National Final. Organised by BMW Group India, the tournament continues to form part of one of the world’s largest amateur golf series.
    Following the Hyderabad rounds, Harsh Kopakka, Mohan Tayal, Krishnan C Unni and D Nitesh Kumar emerged as qualifiers, earning advancement to the BMW Golf Cup 2026 National Final scheduled to be held later this year. The competition was conducted at Hyderabad Golf Club, located near the historic Golconda Fort, and featured participants across two handicap categories.

    The Hyderabad leg was spread over two days, with golfers competing in Category A for handicaps up to 12 and Category B for handicaps ranging from 13 to 28. Winners from each category qualified for the National Final, in line with the tournament’s established format.
    The BMW Golf Cup is a long running global amateur tournament series, with qualifying events conducted across multiple countries. In India, the 2026 edition is being held across several cities, including Mumbai, Pune, Ahmedabad, Delhi, Vadodara, Jaipur, Bengaluru, Lucknow, Patna, Kolkata and Gurugram, before culminating in the National Final.

    Participants advancing from the National Final will go on to represent India at the BMW Golf Cup World Final, where individual titles are contested across categories. The tournament continues to attract amateur golfers nationwide, supported by long standing brand partnerships and a structured pathway from local qualification rounds to the international stage.

    At Prittle PrattleNews, featuring you virtuously, we celebrate the commitment and innovation. Led by Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is dedicated to sharing impactful stories that inspire change and create awareness. Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube for more stories that matter.

  • Early cricketing roots revisited as ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Trophy Tour reaches Indian campuses

    The Class of 26 initiative took the trophy to the former schools and colleges of Hardik Pandya, Ishan Kishan and Sanju Samson during the DP World supported tour

    The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Trophy Tour visited educational institutions across India as part of the Class of 26 initiative, which traces the formative journeys of current members of the Indian squad. The programme aims to connect students with the early years of international cricketers by taking the World Cup trophy back to the places where their ambitions first took shape.

    As part of the tour, the trophy was taken to the former schools and colleges of Hardik Pandya, Ishan Kishan, and Sanju Samson. The visits form a key segment of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Trophy Tour, supported by DP World, and are designed to highlight the early environments that shaped the players’ careers.
    The initiative seeks to carry the trophy to the alma maters of every member of the Indian team, linking school and college grounds with the international stage. By revisiting these institutions, the programme acknowledges the role played by early mentors, peers, and facilities in nurturing talent long before national selection and global recognition.

    At each campus, students welcomed the trophy with ceremonial honours and participated in interactive activities alongside tournament mascots Blaze and Tonk. The engagement included games, challenges, and opportunities for students to interact with the trophy, with select participants receiving ICC Men’s T20 World Cup with DP World merchandise.
    The first visit took place at MK High School in Vadodara, the former school of Hardik Pandya, in the presence of Principal Vinaya Tulasi and Director Subhash Pandya. The tour then moved to the College of Commerce in Patna, where Ishan Kishan studied, attended by Vice Principal Dr M Faizal, Sports In-charge K B Padmadeo, and members of the teaching faculty. The third stop was Mar Ivanios College in Thiruvananthapuram, the former college of Sanju Samson, with Principal Dr Meera George and faculty members present.

    At Mar Ivanios College, students added a personal element to the visit by creating a backdrop spelling Sanju Samson’s name using notes and leaving written messages, reflecting the emotional connection between current students and alumni who have gone on to represent the country.
    The Class of 26 initiative also recognises the years of discipline and persistence that underpin international careers. By presenting the trophy within educational settings, the programme places emphasis on long-term effort rather than outcomes alone, encouraging students to engage with sport as a pathway shaped over time.

    The tour will continue with visits to other educational institutions associated with members of the Indian squad. Fans can follow updates through the official ICC Trophy Tour social media handle.
    The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to take place from 7 February to 8 March across venues in India and Sri Lanka. Matches will be hosted at stadiums including Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, Eden Gardens in Kolkata, R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Sinhalese Sports Club Cricket Ground in Colombo, and Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy.
    At Prittle PrattleNews, featuring you virtuously, we celebrate the commitment and innovation. Led by Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is dedicated to sharing impactful stories that inspire change and create awareness. Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube for more stories that matter.

  • Wildlife protection takes centre stage as Tata Steel Kapilash Half Marathon returns to Dhenkanal

    The third edition draws over 5,500 runners, marks Amar Shaheed Baji Rout’s birth centenary, and awards ₹9.46 lakh in prize money

    Dhenkanal, January 10, 2026: The third edition of the Tata Steel Kapilash Half Marathon was organised at Kapilash, Dhenkanal, bringing wildlife conservation into focus as over 5,500 runners participated from 14 states across the country. Held in association with the District Administration, Dhenkanal and the Odisha Athletic Association, the event took place in the buffer zone of the Kapilash Wildlife Sanctuary under the theme “Run to Protect Wildlife”.
    The half marathon was flagged off by Shri Krushna Chandra Patra, Hon’ble Minister of Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare and Science and Technology Departments, Government of Odisha, along with Shri Suryabanshi Suraj, Hon’ble Minister of Higher Education, Sports and Youth Services and Odia Language Literature and Culture Departments, Government of Odisha. Addressing the gathering, Shri Krushna Chandra Patra emphasised the need for collective responsibility in protecting biodiversity, with particular reference to elephant conservation. He appreciated the district administration and Tata Steel for extending the scope of the event beyond physical fitness.

    Shri Suryabanshi Suraj highlighted the role of such initiatives in encouraging a healthy lifestyle and instilling a sense of responsibility among the youth. He noted that large scale participation reflects growing public awareness around fitness and environmental causes.
    The event witnessed international participation for the first time, with Ms Elina Tarasova from St Petersburg, Russia joining the run. Several public representatives were present, including Shri Bibhuti Bhusan Pradhan, Hon’ble MLA, Parjang, Smt Simarani Nayak, Hon’ble MLA, Hindol, Shri Satrughan Jena, Hon’ble MLA, Kamakyanagar, and Shri Pratap Chandra Pradhan, Hon’ble MLA, Angul.

    Senior officials in attendance included Mr Ashish Ishwar Patil, IAS, Collector and District Magistrate, Dhenkanal, Mr Abhinav Sonkar, Superintendent of Police, Dhenkanal, Mr Sumit Kumar Kar, Divisional Forest Officer, Dhenkanal, Mr D B Sundara Ramam, Vice President Corporate Services, Tata Steel, Mr Sudhir Kumar Mehta, Vice President Operations, Tata Steel Meramandali, and Mr Sandeep Dhir, CEO, Tata Steel Technical Services Limited.
    Congratulating the participants and winners, Mr D B Sundara Ramam said that wildlife protection is a responsibility owed to future generations and that the half marathon has evolved into a movement beyond fitness. He also noted that the 2026 edition marked the birth centenary of Amar Shaheed Baji Rout, India’s youngest freedom fighter, with the event paying homage to his courage and sacrifice.

    In the competitive categories, Panchanan Bera from West Bengal won the men’s 21 kilometre race, while Bharti Nain from Haryana secured the women’s 21 kilometre title. A total prize money of ₹9.46 lakh was awarded across categories.
    Mr Sudhir Kumar Mehta stated that the Kapilash Half Marathon reinforces the importance of community driven action in protecting natural ecosystems and noted that the event has been organised for three consecutive years in partnership with the district administration.

    The race route was certified by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races and incorporated international standard timing and tracking systems, including radio frequency chips, split timing mats, and monitoring cameras. Multiple industry partners and regional organisations supported the event, while students from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Dhenkanal assisted with digital amplification across social media platforms.
    At Prittle PrattleNews, featuring you virtuously, we celebrate the commitment and innovation. Led by Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is dedicated to sharing impactful stories that inspire change and create awareness. Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube for more stories that matter.