Category: Running

Video #353: Sri Chinmoy 7 & 13-Hour Races – Seattle

Posted on by Yatkara

Introduction to Another Memorable Day

The 14th annual Sri Chinmoy 7 & 13-Hour Races took place on May 23 at Magnuson Park in Seattle. Organized by the Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team, the event enjoyed excellent cool conditions with morning temperatures around 13°C and afternoon temperatures in the low 17°C under overcast skies. These comfortable temperatures helped the field of about 40 runners deliver strong performances on the scenic 1.54-mile mixed-surface loop course.

A big thank you to all the runners and volunteers for making this another great edition of the Sri Chinmoy Self-Transcendence 7 & 13-Hour Races! The Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team expressed deep gratitude for the successful day and the joyful community spirit.

What Are Sri Chinmoy Races and Their Philosophy

Sri Chinmoy 7 & 13-Hour Races belong to a global series of endurance events based on the principle of self-transcendence — constantly going beyond one’s previous limits in body, mind, and spirit. Sri Chinmoy (1931–2007), a spiritual teacher, prolific athlete, musician, and artist, founded the Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team in 1977. The organization promotes the idea that running can be a meditative and joyful path toward inner growth and outer achievement.

Unlike traditional competitive races, Sri Chinmoy 7 & 13-Hour Races focus on personal progress in a supportive, cheerful, and meditative atmosphere. Runners receive chip-timed lap counting, well-stocked aid stations, and encouragement that helps them discover new capacities.

Event Overview of the Sri Chinmoy 7 & 13-Hour Races

The Sri Chinmoy 7 & 13-Hour Races are held on a beautiful trail in Seattle’s Magnuson Park, offering stunning views of Lake Washington and peaceful wooded sections. The 1.54-mile loop provides a varied challenge with gentle hills and mixed surfaces, ideal for timed ultra efforts.

In 2026, perfect cool weather (13-17°C) and overcast skies created optimal conditions for sustained running. Volunteers from Chicago, Los Angeles, Minnesota, New York, Vancouver, and Victoria joined the local Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team to create a warm family atmosphere.

Record-Breaking Performance in the Women’s 13-Hour Race

Deanna Kytonen produced a spectacular result in the Sri Chinmoy 7 & 13-Hour Races, smashing the women’s 13-Hour course record by more than two full laps (over 3 miles). Her new record stands at an impressive 72.38 miles. This achievement highlights excellent pacing and mental resilience in the cool conditions.

Margaret Yi, running on her birthday, tied the previous women’s course record, adding an emotional and inspiring highlight to the day.

Men’s 13-Hour Victory and Impressive Debut

James Yoo won the men’s 13-Hour division of the Sri Chinmoy 7 & 13-Hour Races with a remarkable 75.46 miles in his very first ultra-marathon. His outstanding debut performance demonstrated how the supportive environment of Sri Chinmoy events helps newcomers achieve exceptional results.

Standout Stories from the 7-Hour Division

In the 7-Hour race, the mother and son duo Erin and Colin Morris each placed second in their respective divisions. Together they covered more than 60 miles, showcasing the family-friendly and inclusive nature of the Sri Chinmoy 7 & 13-Hour Races. The shorter 7-hour format serves as an excellent stepping stone for runners new to ultra-distances while still offering a meaningful endurance challenge.

The History and Global Reach of Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team

The Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team has organized hundreds of races worldwide since 1977. Events range from local 5K runs to the legendary Self-Transcendence 3100 Mile Race — the longest certified footrace in the world. The Sri Chinmoy 7 & 13-Hour Races in Seattle form a vital part of this calendar, bringing the same spirit of self-transcendence to the Pacific Northwest.

All races maintain a focus on inner qualities such as gratitude, harmony, and joy alongside physical performance.

The Crucial Role of Volunteers and Community Spirit

The success of the Sri Chinmoy 7 & 13-Hour Races relies heavily on the dedicated volunteers of the Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team. They provide precise lap counting, nutritional support, medical assistance, and constant positive encouragement. This selfless service creates a uniquely uplifting atmosphere where every participant feels supported in their personal journey.

Results and Photos

Training Tips for Future Sri Chinmoy 7 & 13-Hour Races

Successful participation in the Sri Chinmoy 7 & 13-Hour Races requires building a strong aerobic base, practicing on looped courses, and refining nutrition, hydration, and pacing strategies. The cool 13-17°C weather often experienced in Seattle is runner-friendly, but mental preparation remains key. Sri Chinmoy events teach that inner determination frequently leads to breakthroughs.

Why Runners Love Sri Chinmoy Races Worldwide

Athletes choose Sri Chinmoy 7 & 13-Hour Races and other events for their welcoming atmosphere, emphasis on personal growth, and meditative quality. Many participants report not only physical achievements but also profound feelings of joy and inner peace..

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For more information about sports events, visit the official website: www.srichinmoyraces.org.
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit: www.srichinmoy.org.

Video #351: Sri Chinmoy 10-Day & 6-Day Race 2026 Finish

Posted on by Yatkara

The Sri Chinmoy 10-Day Race and 6-Day Race 2026 reached their thrilling conclusion on April 29 at Flushing Meadows–Corona Park in New York. This iconic multi-day ultra event combined runners from the 10-Day (April 19–29), 6-Day (starting April 23), and 3-Day races on the same flat 0.75-mile loop, creating an unforgettable atmosphere of endurance, community, and self-transcendence.

The Unique Challenge of Multi-Day Races

The Sri Chinmoy 10-Day and 6-Day Race stands as one of the world’s premier ultra-distance events. Athletes run or walk continuously on a certified paved course, supported with 24/7 lap counting, vegetarian meals, medical support, and a strong spiritual atmosphere inspired by Sri Chinmoy’s philosophy of self-transcendence.

In 2026, international participants faced variable weather, physical fatigue, and mental hurdles. The simultaneous finish of the 10-Day and 6-Day races on April 29 created powerful shared moments as runners completed their journeys side by side.

Final Day Highlights

The video beautifully documents the last hours and the official finish. Viewers see exhausted yet joyful runners, including strong performances from veterans like Radu Budan moving into strong positions. Interviews reveal deep insights: one runner discussed finishing despite knee issues, another highlighted how experience allows better pacing and even feeling stronger toward the end.

The 6-Day runners, who started later on April 23, showed remarkable consistency in their shorter but still grueling format. The shared finish line brought everyone together — cheers, hugs, music, and a profound sense of accomplishment filled the park. Runners answered heartfelt questions about happiness, growth, and inner strength gained through the event.

2026 Official Race Results and Photos

10-Day Race Top Men:
    1. Kyohei Yoshizawa – 714.3 miles
    2. Radu Budan – 655.2 miles
    3. Szilard Fodor – 637.2 miles
    4. Sean Gavor – 524.3 miles
    5. Tobias Lavrenz – 473.4 miles

Notable mentions include strong showings further down the field, with many athletes surpassing 300–400 miles through sheer determination.

10-Day Women highlights featured Nayaja Perugini winning with approximately 600.6 miles, averaging around 60 miles per day, showcasing exceptional consistency.

6-Day Race Results:
  • Men: Mark Dorion finished 1st with 312.6 miles.
  • Women: Gesiane Nascimento took 1st with 299.1 miles, followed closely by Mona Majkovska with 294.7 miles.

These 6-Day performances are impressive. Many 6-Day athletes maintained high daily mileage while adapting to the established race camp rhythm.

3-Day Race notes:

Ashprihanal Aalto led the men with 232.6 miles, while Vasuprada Funk topped the women’s category with 151 miles.

Results & Photos

These images beautifully capture tent life, lap counting, emotional finish moments, and the vibrant community at Flushing Meadows–Corona Park.

The Spirit of Self-Transcendence

Sri Chinmoy emphasized that multi-day races like the Sri Chinmoy 10-Day and 6-Day Race go far beyond physical distance. When the body reaches its limits, inner spiritual power and determination take over. In 2026, runners repeatedly demonstrated this — battling shin splints, knee pain, blisters, and sleep deprivation while maintaining smiles and positive attitudes.

Veterans shared how years of experience help with pacing, nutrition, and mental resilience. Newer participants discovered hidden strengths. The supportive environment — lap counters announcing every lap, helpers providing encouragement, and shared vegetarian meals — creates a unique “village” that fosters personal growth.

The simultaneous finish of 10-Day and 6-Day runners amplified this spirit, showing that whether running for 10 days or 6, every mile contributes to the same goal of transcending limitations.

Why These Races Inspire Runners Worldwide

The Sri Chinmoy 10-Day and 6-Day Race appeals to seasoned ultrarunners and those seeking profound personal challenges. The flat, fast course is ideal for setting personal bests in multi-day formats. Facilities include hot showers, cots, dugout spaces for gear, and continuous support that allows focus purely on running.

Many participants return yearly, drawn by the welcoming atmosphere and the opportunity for deep inner exploration. The 6-Day option serves as an accessible entry for those not ready for 10 days, yet still offers a serious test of endurance (as proven by the strong 2026 results around 300 miles).

Historical Context and Previous Competitions

This event continues a proud tradition since 1996 for the 10-Day race. Past editions have featured legendary performances and countless stories of transformation. The Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team organizes similar multi-day events globally, giving runners more opportunities to test their limits. For previous years’ results and reports, explore the official archives on the event website.

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Official Website: us.srichinmoyraces.org/events/6-10-day-race
For more information about sports events, visit the official website: www.srichinmoyraces.org.
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit: www.srichinmoy.org.

Video #350: Epic Start of the 10 and 3 Day Races 2026

Posted on by Yatkara

The 10 Day Race & 3 Day Race 2026 Have Begun

The 10 Day Race has officially started. On April 19 at noon, runners began their remarkable journey on the 0.75-mile loop in Flushing Meadows Corona Park, New York. At the same time, the 3 Day Race is also in full swing. Together, they create a vibrant and supportive atmosphere that you rarely find in other ultras.

In this special video, we take you right into the heart of the event. You’ll see the excitement at the start, the dedication of the runners, and the unique spirit that makes these races so special.

What Makes the 10 Day Race So Extraordinary

There’s something truly special about the 10 Day Race. For ten full days, runners keep moving around the same gentle loop, hour after hour, through day and night. It’s not only about covering distance. It’s about discovering what you’re really made of when fatigue sets in and the mind starts telling you to stop.

Many runners say the real magic often happens around day three or four. That’s when the body settles into its rhythm and a deeper inner journey begins. Suddenly, moments of unexpected joy, clarity, and quiet strength appear. That is the true heart of self-transcendence — going beyond what you thought was possible, one step at a time.

The Supportive Village Atmosphere

One of the things people love most about this event is the strong sense of community. The park quickly turns into a little temporary village. There are tents, a well-stocked kitchen serving hot meals around the clock, medical support, and volunteers who are present 24 hours a day offering encouragement and care.

You’ll see experienced runners who have done this many times before, standing side by side with first-timers who are both excited and a little nervous. Everyone is there for their own personal reason, yet they all share the same quiet determination and mutual respect.

Highlights from the Early Days of 2026

As the race moves forward, runners are steadily finding their rhythm. Some are already smiling through the early laps, while others stay quietly focused on saving energy for the long days ahead. The flat course helps with consistent pacing, and the beautiful surroundings of Flushing Meadows Park make even the nighttime hours feel peaceful.

Meanwhile, the 3 Day Race runners are making strong progress in their shorter but still demanding 72-hour effort. For many of them, this serves as a valuable stepping stone toward attempting the full 10 days in the future.

The Start of 10 and 3 Day Races 2026

Why Runners Keep Coming Back Year After Year

People return to the 10 Day Race for many different reasons. Some come to chase big mileage goals. Others are drawn to the deep inner work that naturally happens when you run for days on end. Almost everyone leaves with a greater sense of patience, resilience, and gratitude — qualities that stay with them long after the race is over.

Daily Updates and Photos

Daily updates, lap counts, and beautiful photos from the 2026 edition are being shared on the Perfection Journey website. You can follow individual runners and see the unique atmosphere that only a multi-day event can create:

An Invitation to Witness Something Special

Whether you’re an ultra runner yourself or simply someone who appreciates stories of human potential, the 10 Day Race and 3 Day Race offer something truly inspiring. In our fast-paced world, these events give runners the rare gift of time — time to go deeper, time to discover new strengths, and time to remember what really matters.

If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to run for days on end while finding unexpected joy and strength along the way, this video gives you a genuine glimpse into that world.

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For more information about sports events, visit the official website: www.srichinmoyraces.org.
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit: www.srichinmoy.org.

News #129: Inspiring Sri Chinmoy 10km Race in Zurich

Posted on by Yatkara

Runners on the flat course during the Sri Chinmoy 10km Race in Zurich 2026

Sri Chinmoy 10km Race in Zurich Returns for Another Successful Edition

On Sunday, 8 March 2026, the Sri Chinmoy 10km Race took place in the Affoltern district of Zurich, Switzerland. This popular road race continues to attract runners who appreciate a fast, flat, and officially measured course combined with the uplifting spirit of the Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team.

The event is known for its simplicity, efficiency, and welcoming atmosphere. Many participants return year after year because the Sri Chinmoy 10km Race provides a genuine opportunity to test their fitness while enjoying the joy of self-transcendence — going beyond previous personal limits with a cheerful heart.

Course Details and Organisation

The course consists of four laps (each approximately 2,433m plus a final 268m section), making a total distance of 10km. It is mostly flat with only 70 metres of elevation gain across the entire race (about 17 metres per lap). Roughly 7.4km of the route is on asphalt, offering excellent running conditions.

The race is officially measured by the Swiss Athletics Federation (SLV) and is eligible for national best lists. This makes it especially attractive for runners aiming for personal bests or seeking officially recognised times. The start and finish area, along with changing rooms, showers, and the awards ceremony, were conveniently located at the same venue.

Age Categories and Prizes

The Sri Chinmoy 10km Race features clear age-group categories:

  • Men / Women HK (born 1977 and younger)
  • Men / Women 50 (1967–1976)
  • Men / Women 60 (1957–1966)
  • Men / Women 70 (1947–1956)
  • Men / Women 80 (1946 and older)

A team competition is also included. Prizes consist of natural products. The top 7 in the main categories and the top 3 in the older age groups receive awards.

Current course records stand as:

  • Women: Elvira Keiser (LA Nidwalden) – 37:54
  • Men: David Keller (TV Oerlikon) – 32:23

These strong times show that the flat, fast course is capable of producing excellent performances.

Support and Post-Race Refreshments

After the race, all participants received a freshly prepared muesli — a nice touch that many runners look forward to. Parking was available at the nearby Fronwald sports facility or in the blue zones around the area. 

The organisation was handled efficiently by the Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team, with contact person Heinz Heer available for any questions.

Results and Photos

Why Runners Choose the Sri Chinmoy 10km Race

The Sri Chinmoy 10km Race stands out for several reasons. The flat, measured course is ideal for chasing personal bests or simply enjoying a steady run. The small-field, community-focused atmosphere creates a refreshing contrast to larger commercial events. Runners often mention the positive energy, helpful volunteers, and the deeper sense of purpose behind the race.

For many, taking part in a Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team event is about much more than achieving a good result. It is an opportunity to unite physical effort with inner aspiration — to run with joy and sincerity while sharing the experience with like-minded souls.

A Growing Tradition in Zurich

The Sri Chinmoy 10km Race has established itself as a reliable early-season race in the Zurich area. Its location in Affoltern provides easy access by public transport and car, while the park-like setting makes the laps feel pleasant rather than repetitive.

Registration for the next edition usually opens in October. 

Looking Ahead

With its official measurement, fast course, and welcoming spirit, the Sri Chinmoy 10km Race continues to attract both competitive runners and those who simply enjoy a well-organised local race. Whether you are aiming for a new personal best or simply want to start the season with a positive experience, this event offers an excellent opportunity.

Related Events

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For more information about sports events, visit the official website: www.srichinmoyraces.org.
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit: www.srichinmoy.org.

News #128: Sri Chinmoy 5K & 7-Mile Race Prospect Park

Posted on by Yatkara

Happy finishers celebrating at the 10th annual Sri Chinmoy 5K & 7-Mile Race

Sri Chinmoy 5K & 7-Mile Race Celebrates 10th Anniversary in Prospect Park

On Sunday, 8 March 2026, the Sri Chinmoy 5K & 7-Mile Race marked its tenth annual edition in the beautiful Prospect Park, Brooklyn. Runners gathered on a warm but foggy and damp morning for a scenic loop course that combined challenge with the classic Sri Chinmoy spirit of joyful self-transcendence.

The event offered two popular distances: the 5K and the longer 7-Mile race. Both courses followed the park’s pedestrian lane along Park Drive, providing a mix of open meadow views and shaded forest sections. Despite the overcast and slightly humid conditions, the rain held off, creating pleasant running weather for participants of all ages and abilities.

Excellent Performances in the 5K Race

The 5K saw some very strong running. Julien Renault from Le Vaudreuil took first place overall in an impressive 16:48 (chip time 16:44). Robert Mullen from Brooklyn finished second in 17:33, closely followed by Luke McCambley, also from Brooklyn, in 17:36.

In the women’s category, Danielle Pancer from Brooklyn was the fastest female with 21:31. Sarah Björklund took the top spot in the Women 50-59 category, while Ann Vazquez and Maggie Deschamps excelled in the Women 60-69 group.

Notable mentions include young Calvin Whitehead’s strong showing in previous shorter races and several runners who tackled the course with strollers, showing great determination on the hilly sections.

Outstanding Results in the 7-Mile Race

The 7-Mile race brought even more inspiring performances. Geoffrey Scott from Brooklyn won outright in 40:31. Leonel Perez placed second in 41:04, and Marc Saladino took third in 41:27.

Emily Caffery was the fastest woman in 48:03. In the older age groups, Nick Thompson won the Men 50-59 category, while Dan Dougherty claimed victory in the Men 70+. Many runners praised the scenic loop and the supportive atmosphere throughout the longer distance.

A Special Milestone Edition

Reaching the tenth edition is a wonderful achievement for the Sri Chinmoy 5K & 7-Mile Race. Over the past decade, this event has become a favourite among local Brooklyn runners and visitors alike. The course in Prospect Park offers a perfect balance of beauty and challenge, with gentle hills that test endurance without being overwhelming.

The Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team once again delivered smooth organisation. The early morning start allowed runners to enjoy the rest of their Sunday, and the foggy conditions added a unique, peaceful atmosphere to the park setting.

Why Runners Keep Coming Back

The Sri Chinmoy 5K & 7-Mile Race stands out for several reasons:

  • A scenic and well-measured course in one of New York’s most beautiful parks
  • A welcoming, non-competitive spirit focused on personal progress
  • Excellent support for runners of all ages and abilities
  • Free downloadable professional photos searchable by bib number
  • A genuine community feel with runners, volunteers, and spectators cheering everyone on

Many participants return year after year because the event successfully combines a solid athletic challenge with the deeper joy of self-transcendence — going beyond previous limits with a cheerful heart.

Results and Photos

Looking Ahead

With ten successful editions now complete, the Sri Chinmoy 5K & 7-Mile Race continues to grow as a favourite early-season event in the New York running calendar. Many participants are already looking forward to next year’s edition and other upcoming Sri Chinmoy races in the region.

You may also enjoy reading about other recent Sri Chinmoy events, including the Acton Fun Runs, the 100km Road Race in Canberra, and the Self-Transcendence Marathon in Nish.

Related Events & Resources:

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For more information about events, visit the official website: www.srichinmoycentre.org.
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit: www.srichinmoy.org.