Category: Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team

Video #341: Epic 841-Finisher Thanksgiving Runs 2025

Posted on by Yatkara

On a cloudy but warm Thanksgiving morning in 2025, Flushing Meadows Corona Park became the stage for the largest Thanksgiving Runs in the event’s 15-year history.

841 runners took part — 555 in the 5K and 286 in the 6-mile / 10K — creating an atmosphere of shared gratitude, movement and quiet celebration that perfectly captured Sri Chinmoy’s teaching: run to express inner joy and give thanks through action.

Thanksgiving Day Runs – Record Participation & Unity

Hundreds of families, solo runners, multi-generational groups and first-timers filled the flat, scenic loops around the Unisphere and the historic 1964 World’s Fair site. Despite the overcast sky, the mood remained bright: smiles at every aid station, children racing with pure delight, masters athletes earning loud cheers, and finish-line hugs that turned strangers into friends for a moment.

Volunteers were everywhere — handing out water, ringing cowbells, calling names, offering encouragement — making sure no one felt alone on the course. Their energy turned the morning into much more than a race: it became a collective expression of thanks.

Why These Runs Feel Different

  • There is no aggressive competition clock in the background.
  • There is no pressure to beat anyone else.
  • The only goal is to move forward — at your pace — and let the act of running become an offering of gratitude.
  • That simple shift creates a very rare atmosphere: people of every age and ability finish feeling uplifted rather than drained.

Thanksgiving Runs. 841 runners took part — 555 in the 5K and 286 in the 6-mile / 10K

A Small Tradition That Keeps Growing

Sri Chinmoy students have quietly organised this Queens Thanksgiving morning run for 15 years. What started as a modest gathering has become one of the most loved holiday traditions in the borough. A portion of every entry fee supports the park itself — continuing the cycle of giving thanks by giving back.

Full Results & Photos

Read the detailed event report

Previous Events of 2025 You May Enjoy

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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 #108: Sri Chinmoy Centre Russia 2025 – Epic Media Breakthrough

Posted on by Yatkara

Nearly 100 Media Features on Harmony Run, Ultrarunning, Sri Chinmoy Teachings, and More

In 2025, Sri Chinmoy Centres in Russia received extensive media attention for Sri Chinmoy’s Path initiatives, with nearly one hundred articles, videos, and audio reports across Russian outlets. The Harmony Run dominated coverage, spanning over 7,000 kilometers through Russia. In small towns and villages, it became a major community event, earning eager local press. Many reports are archived on the official site: www.harmonyrun.ru.

Harmony Run 2025 – 7,000+ km Inspiring Communities Across Russia

The run launched in Smolensk with greetings from Governor Vasily Anokhin, covered widely in regional media. Olympic champion Nadezhda Talanova ran ~20 km with the torch alongside elite athletes like Elena Sidorenkova (world 24-hour record holder), Anna Korolko (winter swimming champion), and Vasily Larkin (100 km champion). The torch passed to Belarusian runners at the border after visits to towns like Pochinok, Yelnya, Roslavl, Desnogorsk, Shumyachi, and Khislavichi. Veteran Svetlana Khisamutdinova (81) ran daily segments, embodying Sri Chinmoy’s inspiring words:

Age is in the mind and not in the heart …

– Sri chinmoy. The Body’s Fitness-Gong. The Soul’s Fulness-Song

On the Zyuratkul Ridge, the run joined an eco-festival “Earth – Our Home of Unity” at Zyuratkul Nature Reserve. Participants climbed to the 1,175 m summit amid a week-long vegetarian experiment for all. Yuri Moskalyov and Nikolai Duzhy led efforts.

In Transbaikalia (Chita), Minister of Sports Andrey Seryodkin met participants on August 6, praising their promotion of health and unity. The torch arrived on August 5 from diverse cities, with the youngest runner aged 12.

In Bikino (Primorsky Krai), the relay included a route from “Bikin” stele to Glory Memorial, flower-laying ceremony, rest at Lokomotiv Stadium, and continuation to Orenburgskoye village with bread-salt welcome, concert, and run. It proceeded to Luchegorsk, Ussuriysk, and Vladivostok.

A 2025 Harmony Run photo slideshow captures the journey’s spirit.

Ultra running Spotlight – First Russian 6-Day Run

The inaugural Russian 6-day “Self-Transcendence” run (August 8–14, 2025, Voronovo, New Moscow) drew 28 participants from Russia, Kazakhstan, and Belarus. Men’s winner Sergei Verbitsky (Tula) covered 708 km; women’s Larisa Psuykalova (Chelyabinsk, 60+) ran 510 km. Interviews revealed strategies like minimal sleep, on-the-move eating, and a positive mindset.

Haborovsk’s Andrey Komyagin earned silver (630 km).

Stories of Sri Chinmoy and Followers – Personal Triumphs and Philosophy

Music, Film, and Anniversaries – Cultural Echoes of the Sri Chinmoy’s Path

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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.

Video #338: Peace Swim 2026 Dubrovnik Anniversary

Posted on by Yatkara

In early January 2026, a group of about 30 dedicated students of Sri Chinmoy participated in a meaningful Peace Swim 2026 Dubrovnik Anniversary event. This swim honored the 40th anniversary of the very first Peace Swim, which took place in Hiroshima on January 1, 1986. That same year, the United Nations had proclaimed 1986 as the International Year of Peace. Consequently, the event carried deep historical and spiritual significance.

The Serene Setting at Sun Gardens Dubrovnik

Sri Chinmoy Peace Swim anniversary in Dubrovnik

Sun Gardens Dubrovnik offered the perfect setting for this meditative swim. It is a five-star beachfront resort in Orašac, only 11 km from Dubrovnik’s famous Old Town. The resort sits along the beautiful Adriatic coast. Guests enjoy wide views of the clear blue sea and distant Elaphiti Islands.

The grounds cover 22 hectares. They include lush Mediterranean gardens and tall pine trees. Terraced paths lead gently down to the water. This layout creates a calm, natural sanctuary.

The resort has a private pebble beach with very clear turquoise water. Participants walked straight to the shore. Gentle waves and fresh sea air added to the peaceful mood. Three outdoor pools, including a large infinity pool facing the ocean, completed the relaxing scene.

The Profound Message Behind the Peace Swim

Additionally, the swim was more than just exercise. It served as a living tribute to Sri Chinmoy’s vision of peace. Specifically, he taught that true peace begins within each individual and then radiates outward to the world. Therefore, by swimming together in silence and dedication, participants offered their efforts as prayers for global harmony and the end of conflict.

The video captures this essence beautifully. In particular, it includes a fascinating interview with Adhiratha, a long-time student of Sri Chinmoy and accomplished open-water swimmer. Furthermore, Adhiratha shares profound insights on the swim’s deeper message. He discusses its historical ties to the United Nations, as well as Sri Chinmoy’s enduring vision for peace through self-transcendence, inner harmony, and human oneness.

A Legacy of Peace Through Action

Over the years, Sri Chinmoy inspired countless initiatives like this. For example, starting in 1986 during the UN’s Year of Peace, swims were held in various locations worldwide. Since then, the tradition has continued through events such as English Channel crossings, Manhattan island circumnavigations, and lake swims—all dedicated to peace themes.

In addition, Adhiratha’s own journey reflects this legacy. As one of the early swimmers for the Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team, he crossed the English Channel in 1985 and participated in multiple peace swims. Thus, his interview adds personal depth, showing how these physical challenges foster spiritual growth and contribute to world peace.

Continuing the Tradition of Oneness

Ultimately, events like the Peace Swim 2026 Dubrovnik Anniversary remind us that peace is an active pursuit. By participating, individuals transcend personal limitations while aspiring for collective harmony. In this way, Sri Chinmoy’s philosophy lives on vibrantly through these symbolic acts.

Previous related events and competitions:

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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 #104: Sri Chinmoy Christmas Dash – Christchurch, NZ

Posted on by Yatkara

Sri Chinmoy Self-Transcendence Christmas Dash 2025 – 10km and Kids 3.2km

The Sri Chinmoy Self-Transcendence Christmas Dash – 10 km & Kids 3.2 km brought runners, families, and supporters to South Hagley Park in Christchurch on 30 November 2025. This festive event blended athletic challenge with community joy, encouraging participants to embrace self-improvement through movement and shared celebration.

Throughout the morning, athletes enjoyed a flat three-lap 10 km route while younger runners completed a single 3.2 km loop. Early arrivals warmed up near Deans Ave and Riccarton Ave before making their way to the start line. Thanks to the relaxed and friendly atmosphere, newcomers and experienced runners alike felt welcomed and supported.

On the Course: 10 km & Kids 3.2 km

South Hagley Park provided an ideal setting for the event. The entire course stayed within the park’s pathways, allowing runners to share the space with walkers, families, and cyclists. Because the area stayed open to the public, the race naturally gained a cheerful, community-focused feel.

Adults and teens raced the main 10 km distance, while children took part in the shorter 3.2 km dash. Parents were allowed to accompany their kids, which made the event even more inclusive. Festive outfits, friendly encouragement, and post-race smiles added warmth to the entire morning. As finishers crossed the line, volunteers and supporters offered applause, creating a joyful closing to the running season.

Results – Full Finish Times

The 2025 edition included personal bests and strong performances from athletes of many age groups. Each finisher contributed to the uplifting spirit that defines the Christmas Dash.

Complete results for all runners are available in the official results file: Results PDF

Photo Gallery – Highlights from the Event

These photos show runners of all ages giving their best, celebrating with family, and enjoying the festive atmosphere.

Experience the race through our lens: View Gallery

Why the Dash Matters

The Sri Chinmoy Self-Transcendence Christmas Dash reflects the philosophy of the Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team: progress through consistent effort and joy. Unlike races focused solely on competition, this event invites everyone — regardless of pace — to participate, improve, and feel uplifted.    

For many runners, it serves as a meaningful end-of-year challenge. For children, it may be the start of a lifelong love for running. And for families, it becomes a shared tradition filled with encouragement and warmth.

Other Sri Chinmoy NZ Events

Throughout 2025, the Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team held several events across New Zealand. Earlier in the year, Christchurch hosted the Self-Transcendence 100 km & 50 km Ultras, offering a demanding endurance challenge. The Spring Half Marathon & 10 km also drew many runners seeking personal progress. Additional local races supported community participation and fitness throughout the year.

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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 #103: Sri Chinmoy National Capital Swim 2025 – Canberra 10 km Challenge

Posted on by Yatkara

Sri Chinmoy National Capital Swim 2025 - Canberra 10 km Challenge

On 30 November 2025, the Sri Chinmoy National Capital Swim brought swimmers from across Australia together for a full 10 km crossing of Lake Burley Griffin in Canberra. The race tests endurance, spirit, and heart. 

Weather, Water & Waves

At dawn, the lake surface was like glass — calm and inviting. Yet by afternoon, the wind rose sharply, capsizing kayaks and stirring rain showers across the finish area. The change made the swim far tougher than anyone expected. 

Still, many persevered. The early calm and sudden challenge made every stroke — from first to last — a test of resolve and resilience.

Standout Performances

  • Michael Pranckl completed the 10 km in 2:39:19, the fastest solo time — 11 minutes ahead of the next solo finisher — and won the M50–59 category. 

  • Veteran swimmer Murray Chapman (M60–69) finished in 2:51:07, marking one of the oldest high-ranking solo finishes in the event. 

  • On the women’s side, Louisa Jeffery surged ahead to finish in 2:54:54, claiming the top spot among female solo swimmers. 

Team relays also saw strong performance: the all-female squad Bronte Babes clocked 2:32:20, earning top position among female relay teams. Mixed-gender and all-male relay divisions also saw tight finishes and spirited effort. 

Every swimmer who started the race — from seasoned veterans to first-timers — showed dedication; many battled wind, waves, and fatigue to reach the finish.

More Than a Race — A Community Celebration

The Sri Chinmoy Swim is not just a competition — it’s a gathering of water-lovers, nature-lovers, and supporters. Safety crews in kayaks, volunteer paddlers, organizers, and cheering friends helped each swimmer in their journey. Their efforts ensured that even under unpredictable weather, the event remained safe, supportive, and full of goodwill.

As the wind whipped and rain threatened, supportive cheers from paddlers and helpers made a difference. The collective spirit kept the race alive — reminding everyone that beyond timing and trophies, the community matters.

Results, Photos & Past Races

Why This Swim Inspires

Whether you’re an open-water veteran or just curious, this swim shows how determination + community support + nature’s unpredictability = a meaningful race. It proves success isn’t just speed — it’s courage, heart, and the willingness to finish what you start. After all, the lake doesn’t care about times. But the swimmers? They care. And their stories — of effort, joy, challenge, and camaraderie — are what make the Sri Chinmoy Swim more than a race.

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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.