Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon is about inclusion, perseverance, and the power to ignite change: Carl Lewis

Rakesh Thapliyal

New Delhi:Legendary nine-time Olympic gold medallist Carl Lewis, who is the International Event Ambassador for the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon (VDHM) 2025, shared his excitement for the upcoming World Athletics Gold Label Road Race, while also motivating participants with words that capture the transformative power of sport.

During a press conference in New Delhi, Lewis emphasised how Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon is about more than just competition — it’s about breaking barriers and creating a cultural shift that brings together people from all walks of life.

“Breaking barriers is at the very heart of what the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon represents. What makes it unique is not just breaking barriers, but the cultural shift it inspires through sport. When amateurs run alongside Olympic champions, it shows how running can unite people from all walks of life. Every runner can say, ‘I ran with her, I ran with him,’ and that experience is truly inspiring. The Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon is about inclusion, perseverance, and the power to ignite change with every single step,” stated Lewis.

On guiding young and budding athletes, Lewis shared profound advice from his own journey and stated, “Success requires sacrifice and resilience. I used to miss out on parties to stay focused. You have to give up a lot today for a better tomorrow. Too often, kids are tempted by instant rewards instead of long-term goals. I chose a tough path and embraced change because I knew greatness demands it. Everyone has something to improve, and it may take time to reach your goal, but don’t chase instant gratification. Keep your eyes on your ultimate dream.”

Carl Lewis’s phenomenal career continues to inspire generations of athletes and fans alike. He competed at four Olympic Games from 1984 to 1996, capturing an extraordinary nine gold medals — the most by any track and field athlete in modern Olympic history. His 1984 performance in Los Angeles echoed Jesse Owens’ legendary 1936 feat, winning golds in the 100m, 200m, long jump, and 4x100m relay. Lewis broke the world record in Seoul 1988’s 100m final, soared 8.67 metres in long jump and anchored the US world record 4x100m relay team in Barcelona 1992, and capped his career with an unprecedented fourth consecutive long jump gold at Atlanta 1996.

Carl Lewis’s legacy transcends sport and his words encapsulate the spirit of the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, which attracts thousands of participants annually across multiple categories and celebrates the culture of endurance running in India.

The Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon is set to kick off from the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on 12th October 2025 and its scenic route weaves through Delhi’s iconic landmarks—from Lodhi Gardens to India Gate, thus offering runners a world-class racing experience that unites India’s vibrant running community. With Carl Lewis once again inspiring entrants, the 2025 race promises to elevate the running culture and encourage athletes of all levels to challenge limits and celebrate the joy of running.