Category: Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team

Video #330: Sri Chinmoy “News Report” – with a Smile

Posted on by Yatkara

This playful “News Report” takes you through some remarkable moments with the Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team (SCMT) – celebrating extraordinary endurance, global heart, and good-humoured community spirit.

Triathlon in Canberra: Not Your Average Swim

At 5:30 AM, athletes in Canberra, Australia, dove into the Sri Chinmoy Triple-Triathlon, a 150 km off-road extravaganza. Picture this: three full triathlons back-to-back, swimming in three different lakes, biking up and down ten peaks, and running all over the city. Solo competitors and teams competed, all sharing one goal – pushing their boundaries, then doing it again. The “Stuffed Puffs” won top honors, while the “Diggers” came in second – and yes, they joked that Australia’s dangerous wildlife couldn’t catch them.

Sri Chinmoy News Report - Sri Chinmoy Triple-Triathlon in Canberra, Australia

Vasanti Niemz and the Iconic Manhattan Swim

Meanwhile, Vasanti Niemz of Germany took on the legendary 20 Bridges Challenge – a 48.5 km swim around Manhattan Island. She navigated three tidal rivers – the East, Harlem, and Hudson – in conditions that most would call “completely crazy.” Despite it all, she completed the swim in 9 hours 34 minutes. She cheerfully suggested that 27 bridges would be more meaningful than 20, and even pressed New York’s mayor to build a few more.

Sri Chinmoy News Report - Vasanti Niemz 48.5 km swim around Manhattan Island - 9 hours 34 minutes

Shamita Runs Across Europe, London Goes 24-Hour

On the running side, Shamita Achenbach-König, a musician from Vienna, ran 2,000 km from Vienna to Oslo, crossing several countries for friendship and harmony. Back in the UK, SCMT’s 24-hour race in London brought runners together for a full weekend – laps, laughter, and the shared joy of endurance.

Sri Chinmoy News Report - Shamita runs across Europe 2000 km, Vienna - Oslo

And in other cities – Munich, Salzburg, San Diego – 6-hour races added to the global mix. In San Diego, the race got a surprise visitor: a large rattlesnake allegedly finished (at 5.2 mi) and helped itself to 80% of the race snacks. (Yes, that part’s playful.)

Sri Chinmoy News Report - Sri Chinmoy 6-Hour Race - Amstelveen, Netherlands

Why This Report Connects with Everyone

This “News Report” works because it makes extraordinary feats feel familiar. By pairing real SCMT achievements with playful commentary, it invites a wide audience — not just ultrarunners – to marvel at what people can do when they combine heart, discipline, and a little humour.

Whether you’re inspired by long-distance triathlons, open-water swims, or cross-continental runs, this video shows that the Sri Chinmoy community is about more than athleticism. It’s about connection, self-transcendence, and uplifting one another – values that resonate far beyond any finish line.

Learn More About These Incredible Stories

If you’re curious to explore more about the events mentioned:

Featured News

  • News #61: Vasanti Niemz Completes 20 Bridges Swim Around Manhattan – Read more
  • News #66: The 18th Annual Self-Transcendence 4/21 km Race – Erdenet, Mongolia, September 13, 2025 – Read more
  • News #67: The 12th Annual Sri Chinmoy Peace-Mile 6-Hour Race – Munich, Germany, September 13, 2025 – Read more
  • News #71: Self-Transcendence 24-Hour Track Race – London, United Kingdom – Read more
  • News #73: Sri Chinmoy 6-Hour Race – Amstelveen, Netherlands – Read more
  • News #92: Inspiring Sri Chinmoy 6-Hour Race in San Diego 2025 – Read more
  • News #93: Sri Chinmoy Triple-Triathlon in Canberra – A Day of Endurance, Teamwork and Inspiration – Read more

Featured Videos

  • Video #314: Shamita Achenbach-König’s Solo Run – Vienna to Oslo – A cross-continental journey for harmony – Watch video
  • Video #316: Swimming 20 Bridges Around Manhattan for Peace – Vasanti Sets Record – An aquatic odyssey around New York City – Watch video

More Information

To explore upcoming Sri Chinmoy races: www.srichinmoyraces.org.
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy: www.srichinmoy.org.

 

Video #329: Epic Spirit – Sri Chinmoy Paris Ultra 50 km & 100 km

Posted on by Yatkara

A Spirit of Self-Transcendence in Paris Woods

The Sri Chinmoy Paris Ultra – 50 km & 100 km event on July 19, 2025, was a remarkable celebration of endurance, harmony, and inner strength in the beautiful Bois de Vincennes. At 8:00 AM, 47 ultrarunners began the 100 km race, looping through a 1,589 m circuit of shaded woodland and paved paths. Later in the morning, 69 athletes set out for the 50 km, and by the end, 60 runners crossed the finish line, a testament to both physical stamina and spiritual resilience. 

This year’s edition brought fresh changes: the race village was relocated, and the loop was extended by approximately 280 meters, introducing a new turnaround that challenged participants to adapt with grace.  Though weather forecasts hinted at both heat and storms, nature remained calm for most of the day. A gentle evening rain greeted runners at the end — quietly poetic, almost like a blessing for their efforts. 

The Heart of the Race: More Than Distance

Watching the slideshow, you’ll feel more than just the rhythm of feet on pavement — you’ll sense a shared journey. There are scenes of runners rounding the loop, strong but humble, faces marked by effort and inner calm. Aid stations offer water, energy drinks, and fresh fruit, while volunteers cheer, encouraging each lap with warmth. 

What makes this event so special is the mix of experience: elite ultrarunners standing alongside veteran runners in their 60s and even 70s, all united by a deeper drive than speed alone. This isn’t just a competition — it’s a community of self-transcendence, a place where the personal challenge becomes a spiritual practice.

Sri Chinmoy Paris Ultra runners on loop course

Reflections & Meaning

If we run, we see our capacities becoming fully manifested. … But when we run, we bring to the fore our hidden capacities and are able to do something and become something

— Sri Chinmoy, The outer running and the inner running

This race, and this video, embody that truth. Every step, every loop, every quiet moment in the woods feels like an offering — not just to the finish line, but to something greater within.

For those who want to dive deeper into the event, check out News #53 (posted  August 11, 2025).

Why This Video Matters

This video isn’t just a recap — it’s a meditation in motion. It invites you into a space where every lap becomes a moment of reflection, and every runner’s effort is a silent prayer. If you’ve followed Sri Chinmoy’s races before, or are discovering them for the first time, this is a powerful reminder of what true endurance looks like — not just in miles, but in spirit.

Photos, Results, and Event Highlights

A Continuing Legacy of Inspiration

Sri Chinmoy’s races continue to inspire runners worldwide. They remind us that endurance is not only about distance but also about discovering inner strength and peace.

Learn More

News #92: Inspiring Sri Chinmoy 6-Hour Race in San Diego 2025

Posted on by Yatkara

Two runners holding awards and medals in front of a results board at the Sri Chinmoy 6-Hour Race in San Diego 2025

The San Diego Sri Chinmoy 6-Hour Race returned to Lake Miramar on November 9, 2025, bringing together 52 runners and walkers, ranging in age from 16 to 89, for a truly inspiring day of determination, joy, and self-transcendence. Under the bright and warming morning sun, participants embraced the six-hour challenge with unwavering energy and camaraderie, fully embodying the spirit of Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team events. This year’s race was not only a test of physical endurance but also a celebration of personal growth, friendship, and the joy of running.

Race Overview

Participants completed multiple 5-mile loops around the scenic Lake Miramar course. Extra mileage was earned by visiting one of three outpost aid stations, each staffed by enthusiastic volunteers providing water, fruit, and encouragement. In addition to tracking distance, the stations encouraged runners to pause, refocus, and push past mental limits. Each lap became more than a physical challenge—it became a journey of self-discovery and inner strength.

Notable Performances

This year, the San Diego Sri Chinmoy 6-Hour Race showcased remarkable performances across all age groups.

  • In the men’s division, Jose Herrera (27) achieved an impressive 45 miles, earning his third consecutive victory since the race’s debut in 2023. His consistency and endurance continue to inspire both new and returning participants.

  • First-time female competitor Fontayne Washington covered 37.5 miles, placing 4th overall. Her performance highlighted the growing diversity and talent in the race, demonstrating that dedication and preparation can overcome any challenge.

  • Veteran runner Piotr Jek (57) completed 41 miles, finishing 2nd overall and first in the Men’s 50–59 category. His achievement shows that age is no barrier to excellence, particularly in an event emphasizing personal growth and perseverance.

Results & Event Info 

  • View the Full Race Results here
  • See Race Photos here
  • Check the Event Page here

Special Moments and Community Spirit

Beyond the impressive distances, the event offered memorable moments that celebrated community and resilience. Winners received giant homemade apple pies from Jyoti-Bihanga Vegetarian Restaurant, along with free meal certificates. Goody baskets were provided for all category winners, ensuring that every participant left with a token of accomplishment.

Meanwhile, a curious and unexpected visitor – a rattlesnake – appeared near the race staging area early in the morning. Safely behind a fence, it stayed for hours, observing the runners with quiet patience. Its presence added a touch of excitement and a reminder of the unpredictability of nature, perfectly complementing the race’s message of persistence and awareness.

Runner Experiences and Reflections

Participants completed the race with determination and perseverance, supporting one another throughout the six-hour challenge. Many shared smiles and encouragement at the aid stations, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and community that defined the San Diego Sri Chinmoy 6-Hour Race. Families, friends, and volunteers played a vital role in cheering the runners, assisting at aid stations, and keeping spirits high throughout the day. The combination of personal effort and community support made the event both meaningful and unforgettable.

Looking Forward to 2026

The San Diego Sri Chinmoy 6-Hour Race 2025 was a resounding success, and organizers are already looking ahead to the 2026 edition, tentatively scheduled for Sunday, November 8, 2026. Whether you are a seasoned ultrarunner or a first-time participant, the race promises another day of endurance, camaraderie, and inspiration.

A day of determination, smiles, and shared achievement reminds us of Sri Chinmoy’s timeless message: “Run and become. Become and run.” This philosophy continues to resonate through every lap, every mile, and every personal victory.

Learn More and Get Involved

 

News #90: Discover Sri Chinmoy and the Legendary 3,100-Mile Race

Posted on by Yatkara

A recent feature article in Marathon Runner magazine, Russia’s leading publication for running enthusiasts with a readership of 40,000, delves into the life and philosophy of Sri Chinmoy, the founder of the Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team (SCMT), and the inspiration behind the world’s longest certified footrace – the Self-Transcendence 3,100 Mile Race.

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English Translation:

Sri Chinmoy: The Story and Philosophy of the Founder of the 3,100-Mile Race

By Irina Kebo – 10/31/2025

The name of Sri Chinmoy, the 20th-century philosopher and humanist, has appeared often in Marathoner magazine. Many of his students call him “Teacher” and proudly belong to the Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team.

Nikolai Duzhiy runs the astonishing Self-Transcendence Race in New York every year – a nearly 5,000 km (3,100 miles) race over 51 days. He has won it three times (2013, 2017, 2018) and is a consistent finisher.

Svetlana Khisamutdinova ran her first marathon at age 50. Now over 80, she amazes thousands with her energy and ability to run not just tens, but hundreds of kilometers. Her track record includes countless marathons, ultramarathons, and multi-day races.

These athletes are students of Sri Chinmoy, but who was their mentor? Let’s get to know him and his philosophy – not just about running, but about life itself.

Who is Sri Chinmoy?

Born on August 27, 1931, in East Bengal (now Bangladesh), he was the youngest of seven children and named Chinmoy Kumar Ghose. “Sri” is an honorific, showing respect to a spiritual teacher.

Chinmoy lost his parents as a teenager. From an early age, he showed talent in sports and creativity, which later flourished in many areas:

• Music: He composed over 23,000 songs in languages including Sanskrit, Bengali, English, and French. Some are short mantras; others honor countries, landmarks, and individuals who contributed to humanity. He mastered dozens of instruments, including piano, organ, flute, cello, and the Indian bowed esraj, and gave hundreds of free concerts worldwide –sometimes playing 15 to 20 instruments in a single performance. His largest audience was over 19,000 in Montreal, 2000.

• Painting: Chinmoy created millions of drawings and paintings, often abstract, vibrant, and harmonious. He called his style Jharna Kala (“Fountain of Art”). Birds often appear in his work, symbolizing peace, freedom, and the soul’s aspirations. His artwork has been exhibited globally, from JFK Airport to the UN Secretariat and the Museum of Contemporary History in Russia.

• Literature: A prolific writer, Chinmoy wrote poems, essays, short stories, plays, and commentaries on Plato, Mozart, and Dostoevsky. Over 1,600 works have been published. His main themes include self-knowledge, harmony, and human values. He lectured at universities worldwide, including Oxford, Cambridge, Yale, Harvard, and Moscow State University. He received awards such as the UN Society of Writers’ Award for Excellence and the Gandhi Peace Prize.

Despite his artistic and literary achievements, Chinmoy is best remembered as a humanist, philosopher, and advocate for peace and unity, admired by figures like Nelson Mandela, Mother Teresa, and Princess Diana. He passed away in October 2007, leaving behind a rich legacy in art, music, literature, and human inspiration.

Sri Chinmoy’s Philosophy

Sri Chinmoy taught that everyone has the right to life, freedom, happiness, and the development of spiritual and physical potential. His works express love for the world and for each individual.

Don’t try to change the world. You will fail. Try to love the world. And look! The world has changed forever.
– Sri Chinmoy

He encouraged overcoming the ego, cultivating compassion, and seeking harmony within oneself. True happiness comes from love and inner balance, which exists in everyone, though not all find it.

Athletic Achievements

Chinmoy led an active life: he was a competitive athlete, weightlifter, tennis enthusiast, and long-distance runner. He completed 22 marathons and 5 ultramarathons. He also organized the Harmony Run, a global torch relay symbolizing unity and peace. Since 1987, participants have covered over 650,000 km across 155 countries. The torch has even reached space, the North Pole, and Mount Elbrus.

The Self-Transcendence Race

Known as the “Everest of ultramarathons,” this race is 3,100 miles (4,988 km) long. Participants run an 883-meter loop in Queens, New York, daily from 6 a.m. to midnight, with 51 days to finish. Daily distances range from 70 to 100 km, supported with food, massages, and medical care.

The race tests mental resilience as much as physical stamina. In 2025, Andrea Marcato of Italy won in 46 days, 16 hours, 19 minutes, and 8 seconds, while Nikolai Duzhiy, at age 59, finished second in 48 days, 4 hours, 57 minutes, 52 seconds – his 13th participation. Only a few runners have ever finished; the race embodies the human spirit’s limitless potential.

Just as a bird needs two wings to fly, a person needs harmony between body and spirit.
– Sri Chinmoy

Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team

Although Sri Chinmoy is no longer alive, the team he founded in 1977 continues organizing ultra-distance races worldwide. Team members pursue ambitious goals in running, swimming, mountaineering, and other challenges, striving for progress in both the outer and inner worlds.

Run to achieve success in the outer world. Reach to make progress in the inner world.
– Sri Chinmoy

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For those interested in exploring the profound connection between running and spiritual growth, the full article offers an in-depth perspective. While currently available in Russian, its insights transcend language barriers, resonating with readers worldwide.

Learn More and Explore Resources

To find out more, visit the official website: www.3100.srichinmoyraces.org. 
For more information about races, visit the official website: www.srichinmoyraces.org.
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit: www.srichinmoy.org.

News #89: Anne Kadet’s 3100 Mile Race Article “Running in Circles for 3100 Miles!”

Posted on by Yatkara

Participants starting the 3100 Mile Race around Thomas A. Edison High School, Queens

Journalist Anne Kadet recently travelled to Queens, New York, to cover the remarkable Sri Chinmoy Self-Transcendence 3100 Mile Race. She shared her reflections in an insightful Substack article titled “Running in Circles for 3100 Miles!”

🔗 Read the full story

In her account, Kadet captures the quiet yet powerful atmosphere of this unique event. Only ten runners take part. There are no road closures, no crowds—just a few volunteers and local supporters cheering on the edges of a high-school block. Yet, despite its simplicity, the race radiates a deep spiritual energy.

Voices from the track:

  • Alex Ramsey (USA) finds “joy and newness in each lap,” even after circling the same route thousands of times.
  • Arpan D’Angelo, a volunteer, compares the loop to the rhythm of the cosmos: “That route is like the motion of the moon and of atoms. That’s how the universe works.”
  • Rupantar La Russo, the race director, explains: “The mind says, ‘3100 miles? You’re kidding me?’ But when you go beyond the mind and into the heart, nothing is impossible.”
  • Harita Davies, the only New Yorker in the race, adds: “You have to live it one day at a time. The world badly needs inspiration.”

As Kadet observes, the run becomes meditation in motion. Repetition turns into spiritual discipline, and endurance becomes an inner practice. A simple block in Queens transforms into a pathway of insight and self-discovery.

Although Kadet admits she could never run 3100 miles herself, the runners’ determination inspires her belief that “I, too, can accomplish whatever I truly feel inspired to do – even if my mind says it’s impossible.”

Discovering Inner Strength through Outer Pathways

This story is far more than a race report. It reveals how ordinary streets can become sacred ground and how perseverance opens the heart to transformation. Whether you run, meditate, or simply seek inspiration, the 3100 Mile Race shows that what seems impossible may, in truth, mark the beginning of a deeper journey.

More Information & Resources

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