Over 3,000 women from across age groups participated in the GEM Women’s Marathon 2026, organised by GEM Cancer Centre in association with the GEM Foundation, with the objective of promoting cancer awareness and women’s safety.
The marathon was formally flagged off by R. Ranganayaki, Mayor of Coimbatore; N. Kannan, Commissioner of Police, Coimbatore City; and Vanathi Srinivasan, Member of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly, who participated as chief guests at the inaugural ceremony.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from women, children, and differently-abled sportspersons, making it a vibrant and inclusive celebration of fitness and social awareness.
The marathon was led by GEM Hospital Chairman, Dr. C. Palanivelu and Joint managing director/ CEO Dr. P. Praveen Raj, GEM Hospital.
N. Kannan, Commissioner of Police, Coimbatore City, said that an exclusive marathon for women is a meaningful initiative. Such events help raise awareness on women’s health and several related social issues. The Coimbatore City Police stands for women’s safety and supports initiatives that promote their well-being. We wish GEM Hospital continued success, he said.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Praveenraj, CEO, GEM Hospital, said that Coimbatore is the only city in India to host a marathon exclusively for women on such a scale. He noted that participation had significantly increased compared to the previous year and added that the entire proceeds from the marathon would be utilised for cancer treatment and care for underprivileged patients.
All proceeds from the marathon will be dedicated to the GEM Foundation’s mission of providing free cancer care to the underprivileged.