Category: News

News #118: Vienna Celebrates Sri Chinmoy’s First Chico Marathon

Posted on by Yatkara

Participants meditate before the special run honoring Sri Chinmoy’s first Chico Marathon

On 8 March, a wonderful atmosphere filled the air as 32 enthusiastic runners and walkers gathered in Vienna, Austria, to celebrate the 47th anniversary of Sri Chinmoy’s Chico Marathon. The event took place on the scenic Sri Chinmoy Peace-Kilometer course, bringing together a dedicated community in a spirit of joy, fitness, and inspiration.

The morning offered perfect conditions for participants of all levels. Four participants completed the full marathon distance, while thirteen runners tackled the half-marathon and fifteen finished the 10 km race. Everyone who took part contributed to a beautiful collective celebration of endurance, inner strength, and the enduring legacy of Sri Chinmoy’s pioneering marathon run in Chico, California, back in 1979.

Marathon Finishers (42.195 km)

  • Tobias — 3:35:00
  • Shamita — 4:05:01
  • Mirjam — 5:19:13
  • Dohai — 5:49:49

Heartiest congratulations to these four determined finishers who showed remarkable perseverance over the full distance!

Half-Marathon Finishers (21.097 km)

Ekagra, Sushloka, Rupasena, Nico, Martin, Joachim, Reza, Deveshu, Tünde, Surasa, Nabhanya, Nidhruvi, Vishvarupani

A big round of applause to all thirteen half-marathon runners for their strong and consistent effort!

10 km Finishers

Ralf, Soham, Horst, Kapritha, Smarana, Niklas, Christian, Pratul, Urdhagati, Dagmar, Ana, Jalabala, Elisabeth, Rakshini, Julia

Fifteen dedicated participants completed the 10 km distance, adding energy and smiles to the celebration. Well done to every runner and walker who joined!

The Sri Chinmoy Peace-Kilometer in Vienna proved to be an ideal setting for this special anniversary event. This beautifully measured one-kilometer loop created a peaceful and motivating environment for all distances.

Events like this highlight the joy of combining physical challenge with inner aspiration. Whether running a full marathon, half-marathon, or 10 km, every step on the Peace-Kilometer carried the message of self-transcendence and peace — values that Sri Chinmoy emphasised throughout his life.

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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 #117: The Surprising Story of Kouros & Sri Chinmoy

Posted on by Yatkara

Yiannis Kouros and Sri Chinmoy

The world of ultrarunning is often a mirror for our inner journey. Recently, the prominent Russian magazine Marathoner (reaching 40,000 subscribers) published a major feature on the legendary Greek runner Yiannis Kouros. The article beautifully highlights the historic bond between Yiannis Kouros and Sri Chinmoy’s vision of Self-Transcendence, showing how the outer world of sports can perfectly reflect the inner world of the spirit.

A Life of Self-Transcendence: Who is Yiannis Kouros?

Yiannis Kouros is widely regarded as the most prolific ultradistance runner in history. With over 150 world records, his achievements are a testament to what a human being can do when they move beyond the limitations of the physical mind. He competed in distances ranging from 100 km to a staggering 1,000 miles (1,609 km).

For Kouros, running was never just about the body. He was famous for entering a deep, meditative state that allowed him to continue long after his physical strength should have been exhausted. He proved that when we reach deep within ourselves, we find a reservoir of energy that the mind cannot explain.

Finding Harmony: Yiannis Kouros and Sri Chinmoy’s Philosophy

The Marathoner feature explores why Kouros was drawn to the races organized by the Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team (SCMT). The connection between Yiannis Kouros and Sri Chinmoy’s races was built on a shared understanding that running is a form of spiritual practice.

Sri Chinmoy, who ran many marathons and ultramarathons himself, saw the track as a place to manifest the soul’s potential.

This philosophy became the foundation for hundreds of races worldwide, including the iconic 3100-Mile Race. For Kouros, these events weren’t just competitions; they were opportunities to manifest the power of the inner will.

The 24-Hour World Record in New York

In 1984, Kouros returned to New York to participate in the Sri Chinmoy 24-Hour Race. It remains one of the most historic performances in the history of the sport:

  • World Record: 284 km in 24 hours.
  • Inner Focus: During the race, he also broke the records for 100 miles and 200 km.
  • The Witness: Observers described his running as “breathtaking,” noting how he moved with incredible speed while appearing completely absorbed in a state of inner peace.

The “Hurricane Race”: Inner Strength Against the Storm

One of the most remarkable stories in the history of Yiannis Kouros and Sri Chinmoy’s races took place during Hurricane Gloria. While most of New York was shut down due to 40 mph winds and torrential rain, the SCMT 24-hour race continued.

Sri Chinmoy himself was there to give the start. Despite the extreme weather, Kouros ran 286.463 km, setting yet another world record. It was a vivid demonstration that the peace and determination we find within can overcome any outer obstacle.

Legendary Achievements and the Spartathlon

Kouros first gained international attention at the Spartathlon (246 km from Athens to Sparta).

  • 1983 Breakthrough: He finished in 21h 53m, a time so fast that many found it hard to believe.
  • The Record: He eventually improved his time to 20h 25m, a record that stood for 39 years.

His multi-day feats are equally extraordinary:

  • 6-Day Race (New York): 1,022 km world record.
  • Sydney to Melbourne (~960 km): He won by a full day’s margin.
  • 1,000-Mile Race (New York): 10 days, 10 hours, and 30 minutes.

A Mind-Over-Matter Approach

Kouros’s training was very different from most modern athletes. He often ran only about 12 km a day, believing that the real secret to endurance was mental and spiritual strength rather than high mileage. He famously believed that after 100 km, everyone suffers the same; the difference lies in the ability to control the mind and let the inner spirit guide the feet.

A Lasting Legacy

It is deeply inspiring to see mainstream media like Marathoner recognize the connection between Yiannis Kouros and Sri Chinmoy’s philosophy. It reminds us all that we are not just physical beings, but spiritual seekers on a journey of constant self-transcendence.

Link to original article (Russian): Marathoner Magazine Feature

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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 #116: A Tribute to Sri Chinmoy’s First Marathon

Posted on by Yatkara

Honouring the Sri Chinmoy First Marathon

On 28 February 2026, runners and friends gathered at Jamaica High School in New York to celebrate the 47th anniversary of the Sri Chinmoy First Marathon, commemorating Sri Chinmoy’s historic debut marathon on 3 March 1979 in Chico, California.

Sri Chinmoy ran his first marathon at the Bidwell Classic Marathon, an event he later fondly referred to as the “Chico Marathon.” From that moment onward, running became an important outer expression of his philosophy of self-transcendence.

To honour this milestone, members of the Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team organized a special running event. Throughout the day, participants completed laps around the Jamaica High School.

Race Format and Distances

To celebrate the anniversary, the Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team offered several distances, allowing runners of different abilities to take part comfortably.

Full Marathon

  • 30.5 laps around the Jamaica High School block
  • Total distance: 42.195 km (26.2 miles)

Half Marathon

  • 15 laps
  • Total distance: 20.74 km (12.89 miles)

Each lap around the Jamaica High School block measured approximately 1.383 km (0.859 miles). As a result, runners could easily track their progress while contributing laps to their chosen teams. Meanwhile, organizers recorded official finishing times for those participating in the marathon and half-marathon distances.

Marathon Results

The full marathon required 30.5 laps around the course, which tested both endurance and concentration. Nevertheless, the participants embraced the challenge with enthusiasm.

Top Marathon Finishers

  1. Boijayanti – 4:44:20
  2. Gesiane – 5:04:30
  3. Palash – 6:12:13

Half-Marathon Results

The half-marathon distance included 15 laps around the Jamaica High School block. Although shorter than the full marathon, the race still required strong focus and steady pacing.

Half-Marathon Finishers

  1. Keertivati – 2:11:20
  2. Harita – 3:15:15

Overall, the runners approached the distance with enthusiasm and a joyful spirit, contributing to the uplifting atmosphere of the anniversary celebration.

Team Results – Laps and Distance

One of the highlights of the event was the team lap competition. Participants could dedicate their completed laps to a specific team, creating a sense of shared purpose and friendly rivalry throughout the day.

With each lap measuring 1.383 km (0.859 miles), the combined effort of the teams covered an impressive total distance.

Team

Laps

Distance (km)

Distance (miles)

Annam Brahma

94

130.04 km

80.80 mi

Divine Robe Supreme

67

92.69 km

57.59 mi

Panorama

36

49.80 km

30.95 mi

Oneness-Heart Centre

21

29.05 km

18.05 mi

Smile of the Beyond

13

17.98 km

11.17 mi

Guru Health Foods

11

15.22 km

9.46 mi

Guru Stationery

4

5.53 km

3.44 mi

Total Distance Completed

Participants collectively completed 246 laps, covering a remarkable total of 340.33 km (211.46 miles)

These laps included marathon runners, half-marathon participants, and runners from the weekly Saturday 2-mile race. In addition, many visitors came in the morning simply to offer several laps in celebration of Sri Chinmoy’s first marathon.

Therefore, the combined effort reflected a beautiful spirit of unity and shared inspiration.

A Remarkable Running Achievement

Sri Chinmoy’s running journey developed with surprising speed after his first marathon.

Only three weeks later, on 25 March 1979, he ran his second marathon — the Heart-Watchers Marathon in Toledo, Ohio. Even more remarkably, he improved his performance dramatically.

Sri Chinmoy reduced his marathon time by 36 minutes, thereby breaking the four-hour barrier at the age of 47.

During 1979 alone, he completed seven marathons in nine months. Consequently, his running became a powerful demonstration of his philosophy of self-transcendence — the idea that human beings can continually surpass their previous limits.

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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 #115: Winter Triumph at Chelyabinsk Self-Transcendence Half Marathon

Posted on by Yatkara

Runners pushing through the winter course at the Self-Transcendence Half Marathon 2026 in Chelyabinsk, showcasing determination and Sri Chinmoy spirit.

The Self-Transcendence Half Marathon 2026 took place on January 10, 2026, in Chelyabinsk, Russia. The runners completed the 21.098 km distance on a looped course (one lap = 7.0325 km). Participants embraced the winter conditions with determination. The event embodied Sri Chinmoy’s philosophy of self-transcendence through running. As a result, it drew athletes from various cities and age categories for a meaningful start to the year’s Sri Chinmoy races in Russia.

Organized under the “Самопреодоление – Зима” banner, the race welcomed men and women across groups like 14-17, 18-39, 40-49, 50-59, and 60-69. Additionally, it featured absolute placings alongside category wins. Overall, the day celebrated personal growth, community support, and the joy of overcoming limits in a peaceful setting.

Top Winners and Standout Performances

Vitaliy Pushkarev (48, Chelyabinsk) dominated the men’s absolute and 40-49 category with an impressive 1:24:54. Next, Timur Akhmedyanov (42, Chelyabinsk) secured second overall (1:33:39) and second in 40-49. Then, Sergey Belov (43, Chelyabinsk) took third overall (1:34:59) and third in the category.

Among women, Natalia Gubchenko (46, Chelyabinsk) achieved first place absolute and in 40-49 with 1:46:45 – earning a season record (РС). Yulia Zakharova (50, Chelyabinsk) finished second absolute (1:50:09, also РС) and first in 50-59. Olga Kamysheva (38, Miass) claimed third absolute (1:50:10) and first in 18-39.

Other highlights included Ivan Chernyshev (37, Chelyabinsk) at 1:37:28 (fourth absolute, first 18-39 men), and veteran Andrey Barsukov (66, Chelyabinsk) completing in 2:12:21 (first 60-69 men, eighth absolute). Young Vladislav Zakharov (15, Chelyabinsk) finished in 2:30:16 (first 14-17 boys, ninth absolute).

These results show depth across generations. For instance, season records by Gubchenko and Zakharova added extra inspiration.

Course and Winter Atmosphere in Chelyabinsk

The looped course (7.0325 km per lap) allowed for steady pacing and spectator support. The runners navigated winter paths in Chelyabinsk. They drew energy from fellow participants and volunteers. The event fostered harmony despite the cold. Consequently, it created a welcoming space for self-improvement.

Sri Chinmoy races emphasize inner peace through outer effort. Thus, this winter half marathon encouraged runners to transcend personal barriers.

Significance of the Self-Transcendence Half Marathon 2026

Events like the Self-Transcendence Half Marathon 2026 remind us that running builds resilience and unity. First, they attract diverse ages and backgrounds. Then, they promote values of gratitude and growth. Moreover, season records motivate future efforts. As a result, participants leave inspired for the year ahead.

This Chelyabinsk race continues Russia’s strong Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team tradition. It sets a positive tone for upcoming events, blending challenge with spiritual depth.

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News #114: New Year’s Day Half-Marathon 2026 in NY

Posted on by Yatkara

Runners starting the New Year's Day Half-Marathon 2026 in Flushing Meadows Corona Park, capturing the excitement of the New Year kickoff.

The New Year’s Day Half-Marathon 2026 took place on January 1, 2026, at 9 AM in historic Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Queens, New York. The runners enjoyed a scenic, flat, and fast loop course. Moreover, conditions were sunny but blustery. As a result, it drew enthusiastic participants ready to begin 2026 with new promises and joy.

Organized by the Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team, the race emphasized self-transcendence, peace, and personal bests. Additionally, it featured chip timing for accurate results. Overall, the event highlighted community support, volunteers, and the spirit of starting fresh through running.

Top Performances and Race Winners

Daniel Granton from Glastonbury, CT, claimed first place in the men’s division with a chip time of 1:17:51 (pace 5:56/mile). Next, Tom Garvey from New York, NY, finished second in 1:19:28 (6:03/mile). Then, Ryan Lewis from Waukee, IA, took third in 1:24:25 (6:26/mile).

In age categories, strong showings included Alan Yorke (1st M50-59, 1:36:25), Rafael Guzman (1st M60-69, 1:39:38), and Le-An Dai (1st M70+, 2:21:57). For women, Nikki Salenetri led under F50 with 1:40:58. Jeanhie Hahn won F50-59 (1:46:22), and Kim Hooper-Stanley topped F60-69 (2:09:16).

These results reflect dedication across ages. For instance, many runners achieved solid times despite the wind.

Full detailed results: Results Page.

Course and Atmosphere in Flushing Meadows

The course offered a flat loop in Flushing Meadows Corona Park. First, it provided scenic views. Then, it allowed for fast pacing. Moreover, the park’s historic setting added charm. Runners appreciated the smooth paths and supportive atmosphere.

Volunteers and spectators cheered throughout. Consequently, participants felt encouraged from start to finish. The event promoted harmony and inner peace through outer effort.

Significance of Starting the Year with Sri Chinmoy Races

Events like the New Year’s Day Half-Marathon 2026 inspire runners worldwide. First, they blend physical challenge with spiritual values. Then, they build community. Moreover, they encourage self-improvement. As a result, participants carry motivation into the year.

This race continues a tradition. For example, it follows strong past editions with records like Thomas Garvey’s 1:14:31 (2024 men’s) and Lauren Longfield’s 1:25:14 (2021 women’s). It sets the stage for the upcoming 2026 Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team events, including multi-day ultras and other road races.

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