bout 25,000 participants including 200-odd celebrities. An on-ground audience of 15,000-plus besides the millions watching it on TV. Upwards of Rs 9 million in prize money. The causes - tsunami victims, HIV patients, anti-smoking, anti-piracy, conservation - as diverse as their supporters. The Standard Chartered Mumbai International Marathon, held on January 16, 2005, was arguably one of the biggest sporting events in the city of Mumbai in recent times.


The entire event, sponsored by Standard Chartered with the Essar Group as associate sponsor, was promoted heavily in the media since the end of last year. Just before the event, the city hosted a four-day (January 12-15) Mumbai Marathon Expo at the World Trade Centre. The Expo showcased top-of-the-line health, fitness and lifestyle brands (such as Nike and Proline), and the latest trends in sports through live demos, product sampling, special appearances by celebrity athletes, health and fitness tips by professionals.
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