Category: Ultra Races

News #63: The Self-Transcendence Marathon in Minsk – August 23, 2025

Posted on by Yatkara

On August 23, 2025, the Self-Transcendence Marathon took place in Minsk in a scenic area near the National Library and along the water canal. This annual event continues to inspire runners of all levels, celebrating both endurance and the spirit of self-transcendence.

The marathon drew over 60 participants eager to challenge themselves. Olga Rizikova triumphed among women with a finishing time of 3:33:00, while Sergey Dydyshko led the men with an impressive 3:03:36. For many runners, this was their first marathon, making their accomplishment even more remarkable. Despite the hot weather and dirt-track conditions, all participants demonstrated determination, perseverance, and the joy of running together in a supportive and uplifting environment.

Congratulations to all runners, volunteers, and organizers for making this inspiring marathon a memorable celebration of self-transcendence! This race beautifully embodies the spirit and values of the Self-Transcendence events worldwide.

More Information:

To explore upcoming Sri Chinmoy races: www.srichinmoyraces.org.
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy’s vision and legacy: www.srichinmoy.org.

News #61: Vasanti Niemz Completes 20 Bridges Swim Around Manhattan in Honor of UN’s 80th Anniversary

Posted on by Yatkara

On September 12, 2025, Vasanti Niemz, 68, of the Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team, undertook the legendary 28.5-mile 20 Bridges Swim around Manhattan, a remarkable journey celebrating 40 years of the SCMT Channel and Marathon Swimming, the 80th Anniversary of the United Nations and its Culture of Peace Program, and 55 years of Peace Meditation at the UN.

Supported by crew members Jamini and Pipasa, and with the Peace Torch on board, Vasanti set out from Pier A, completing the circumnavigation in a stunning 9 hours, 34 minutes, and 7 seconds — several hours ahead of her projected finish time. Her kayak pilot remarked that in all her years of experience, she had never seen such calm conditions under the George Washington Bridge. Throughout the swim, Vasanti dedicated her effort to peace, the Sri Chinmoy Oneness-Home Peace Run, and the spirit of harmony that unites us all.

The next day, Vasanti biked a 20-mile loop around Lower Manhattan and carried the Peace Torch symbolically from the finish of the 20 Bridges swim at Pier A to the United Nations and back. 

Her inspiring journey also points to the upcoming “7 Minutes of Peace” Meditation on Sunday, September 21, at 9:00 a.m. EST, inviting people worldwide to join in a shared moment of reflection and unity.

This extraordinary swim stands as a testament to Vasanti’s endurance, dedication, and heartfelt commitment to peace. 
See also her longer report on: https://www.peacerun.org/us/news/2025/0912/5606/

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

Video #310: First-Ever 6-Day Self-Transcendence Ultra Marathon in Moscow – August 8–14, 2025

Posted on by Yatkara

The inaugural 6-Day Self-Transcendence Ultra Marathon, organized by the Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team, took place in Moscow from August 8 to 14, 2025. Held in the serene Voronovo district, athletes circled a picturesque pond with dancing fountains on a certified track that harmoniously blended nature and endurance. Despite challenging weather conditions – including rain, cold, and heat – participants pushed their physical and mental limits, with the top performer covering an impressive 706 km over the six days.

The event also featured shorter formats, including a 3-Day Race, a 48-Hour Race, and a 24-Hour Race, offering accessible entry points for varying endurance levels. A total of 40 runners from Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Russia embarked on this daring multi-day journey, ranging from veteran ultramarathoners to newcomers exploring the limits of the human spirit.

The next 6-Day Self-Transcendence Race is scheduled to be held in Moscow on July 10, 2026.

For registration and details, please contact: +7 916 518-83-19

Explore More:

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 #309: 10th Self-Transcendence Triathlon 2025 | Elite Races & Young Champions at Vlasina Lake, Serbia

Posted on by Yatkara

Experience the 10th Self-Transcendence Triathlon at Vlasina Lake, Serbia, held on July 27, 2025. Elite athletes competed in World Triathlon Development Regional Cup sprint races, followed by five more races for participants of all ages, from kids to Olympic-distance triathletes.

The day began with elite sprint races, part of the World Triathlon Development Regional Cup, showcasing outstanding regional talent. Following them, athletes across all ages took on five additional races – from youth categories to the full Olympic-distance triathlon.

A total of around 200 triathletes participated, among them inspiring children, including a 6-year-old competitor!

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

News #58: Sri Chinmoy Marathon at Rockland Lake, New York – August 22, 2025

Posted on by Yatkara

On Friday, August 22, 2025, the 23rd annual Sri Chinmoy Marathon gathered runners at the picturesque Rockland Lake State Park in Congers, just 45 minutes north of New York City.

The race unfolded over a USATF-certified, flat 2.95-mile loop – a serene and fast “pancake-flat” course that includes one partial and eight full laps to complete the marathon distance.

A total of 325 finishers crossed the line after a beautiful morning of running. The podium was led by:

  • 1st place: Mike Hagen (Franklin, MA) — 2:35:53 (6:00 per mile pace)
  • 2nd: Chase Smith (Stamford, CT) — 2:37:33
  • 3rd: Viktor Tymoshchuk (Brooklyn, NY) — 2:37:44.

Runners were showered with support and encouragement, making the day as much about community and spirit as it was about endurance.

More Information:

For full results and photos: visit the official event page: 3100.srichinmoyraces.org.
To explore upcoming Sri Chinmoy races: www.srichinmoyraces.org.
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy’s vision and legacy: www.srichinmoy.org.