The day began ‘Sooper’ early at 4 am at Mahindra World City, Chennai on Sunday, Oct 14th 2018. The usual Sunday calm was replaced by an atmosphere of energy and excitement, as more than 5000 runners came together to support education for the girl child. Warm up sessions and zumba set the tone for the day, as participants prepped to run in different categories of races. The 42 km, 21 km and 10 km races attracted serious runners, while the 5 km, 3 km and 1 km ‘Fun Runs’ were customised for beginners, or those simply out to have a good time. Moreover, 60+ corporates and 70+ foreign nationals representing nine countries participated in the sixth edition of Mahindra World City Marathon, which has grown in stature with each passing year. And that’s not all. From young runners to septuagenarians and those who had come in to cheer the athletes, the total number of participants totalled 9000, beating previous records far and wide. The action spilled over onto social media as well, with hashtags #MWCMarathon and #SooperCitySooperLife trending on Twitter! Tamil actor Arya also joined in for a run, much to the crowd’s delight! MWC Marathon 2018 was flagged off near Paranur station and picked its way through the serene, green environs of Mahindra World City, Chennai. The route traced its way past water bodies & scenic trails through MWC Chennai and concluded at the flag off venue. First, second and third ranked male winners in the 42 km category were Munish, Sivanantham and Elijah Kipruto Kemei respectively. Vasantha was ranked first and Padmapriya Ashok was ranked second in the 42 km female category. Runners Chetan and Nachiket who participated in the 21 km run said, “The MWC Marathon 2018 was very well-organised with great weather to boot! We were able to time our best so far. We will definitely be back for the next edition and hope to be in the longer races next year!” Mr. P. Vijayan, Business Head (Residential), Mahindra World City, Chennai, said, “We are delighted with the overwhelming response to MWC Marathon 2018. We continue to be inspired by the energy and enthusiasm of participants who run for a cause greater than themselves. As it grows each year, the MWC Marathon builds on the Sooper City Sooper Life experience at Mahindra World City, Chennai and reflects the values, interests and aspirations of the community.” Part of the proceeds from the entry fees were donated to Project Nanhi Kali, which provides primary education to underprivileged girls in India and is jointly managed by the K.C. Mahindra Education Trust and Naandi Foundation.