Vijayawada city has witnessed an inspiring early morning as Manipal Run for Cure 2026 was successfully held on Sunday, February 1, at Indira Gandhi Municipal Stadium, MG Road. The event was organised by Manipal Hospitals Vijayawada. The third edition brought together many runners, families, medical professionals, cancer survivors and supporters, with the motto “To Stand Together in the Fight Against Cancer” and topromote preventive healthcare. The event was held ahead of World Cancer Day, with the theme "Run for Cure," in tribute to cancer warriors, fighters, survivors, caregivers and medical professionals. The event has brought together first-time runners, seasoned athletes and many people with a shared purpose. The event has transformed the city into a moving symbol of solidarity and awareness.

All participants have assembled at the venue at 5:00 AM. The atmosphere has a deep sense of respect and remembrance. As the sun rose, runners were preparing for 5 KM and 10 KM and they flagged off at 5:30 AM, setting out on a meaningful journey towards awareness and hope. The official poster and T-shirt were launched by Honourable Director General of Police, Andhra Pradesh, Shri Harish Kumar Gupta Garu. His presence at the event for a collective action and community participation in critical health challenges like cancer. The event was smoothly supported by iFinish as the registration partner for a seamless participant experience. Category management, participant data handling and participation of thousands of participants were handled confidently by iFinish. The organised registration flow allowed runners to focus on the cause and their preparation, knowing that logistics were handled professionally.

Timing services for the event were provided by Timing Technologies. They ensured participants had reliable race results for timed categories. Bib numbers were equipped with timing chips to enable precise tracking and fair management results. The integration of professional timing solutions promoted the event’s operational standards and added credibility, especially for competitive runners participating in the 5 KM and 10 KM runs. Each step taken by the runners was in support of cancer patients and there was a commitment to early detection in preventive healthcare. The course was well-managed, with volunteers, hydration points and medical teams stationed throughout, ensuring safety and encouraging all participants.

Medical support was handled by Manipal Hospitals during the event, reflecting their commitment to health beyond hospital walls. Doctors, paramedics, ambulances and first-aid teams were on standby throughout the run, providing reassurance and care whenever needed. This strong medical presence underscored the hospital’s mission of proactive healthcare and community well-being.

Participants who crossed the finish line were welcomed with a finisher medal and certificate. Selected categories were recognised with trophies and prizes and their athletic excellence was celebrated. Participants have also received T-shirts and refreshments, making the experience comfortable and rewarding. Community participation has played a crucial role in the success of the event. Many of the collaborations with the community, connecting Vijayawada and other local organisations, helped amplify outreach and engagement, ensuring strong turnout across
age groups.

Families ran together, friends supported one another, and individuals ran in memory or honour of loved ones, giving the event a deeply personal and collective significance. The success of the third edition of the Manipal Run for Cure in Vijayawada reflects the growing impact of awareness runs in driving social change. By combining fitness, technology, medical expertise and community engagement, the event successfully delivered its message that health awareness begins with individual action and collective responsibility.

The professionalism brought in by partners such as iFinish, through efficient registration systems and accurate timing services, contributed significantly to the event’s smooth flow and credibility. Their involvement ensured that operational excellence matched the emotional and social importance of the cause.