The Indian Cultural Association (ICA) has announced the third edition of the ICA International Marathon, set to take place on December 13 at Galle Face Green in Colombo. The event aims to unite runners, fitness enthusiasts, corporate teams, and international participants in a certified road-running competition that balances athletic challenge with community engagement.
Building on the success of previous editions, the 2026 marathon will offer three race categories: a 21.1-kilometer half marathon, a 10-kilometer Challengers Run, and a 5-kilometer Family Run. For the first time, all courses have been measured and certified under the World Athletics International Measurement Programme in partnership with the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS). This certification ensures the accuracy of the race distances and enhances Colombo’s visibility on the regional athletics calendar.
Prizes will be awarded to the top finishers in each race category, maintaining a competitive element alongside opportunities for recreational runners and newcomers. The official event T-shirt for 2026 has been designed by Sri Lankan activewear brand Carnage, adding a local dimension to the race experience.
“This certification marks a major milestone for running in Sri Lanka,” said Captain Anirban Banerjee, President of the ICA. He emphasized that the marathon serves not only as a sporting event but also as a platform to elevate athletic standards, promote sports tourism, and support community initiatives including clean water and organ donation awareness.
The event receives support from the Ministry of Sports, the Ministry of Tourism, and the High Commission of India, underscoring its role in promoting healthy living, international sports culture, and people-to-people connections. Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, H.E. Santosh Jha, praised the ICA for organizing two successful previous editions and commended the event’s charitable approach, noting that proceeds have benefited 16,000 children in Sri Lankan orphanages.
Beyond the run, the ICA International Marathon maintains a strong social focus. Funds from the last marathon supported a nationwide clean water project, facilitating the installation of 54 Reverse Osmosis filtration units in schools and orphanages across Sri Lanka. Suppliers have overseen the installation to ensure the units' effectiveness and sustainable operation.
Janashakthi Life returns as the title sponsor for the second consecutive year. Ravi Liyanage, CEO of Janashakthi Life, highlighted the company’s commitment to fostering community connections and encouraging healthier lifestyles through ongoing support of the marathon.
In addition to its charitable initiatives, the marathon will continue its organ donation awareness campaign for the third year running. With participant consent, runners will receive donor cards as part of their race kits, promoting public engagement with life-saving health causes.