NE DEFENCE BUREAU
CHENNAI, NOV 2
The Indian Air Force Stations at Tambaram and Avadi, on the outskirts of Chennai, joined 43 IAF stations nationwide in hosting the “Sekhon India Air Force Marathon” on Sunday, November 2, 2025, as part of the celebrations marking the 93rd Anniversary of the Indian Air Force (IAF).
The marathon, held under the motivating theme “Run–Soar–Inspire”, paid a heartfelt tribute to Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon, Param Vir Chakra (PVC) — the only IAF officer ever to receive India’s highest military honour for gallantry.
The marathon featured three categories — 21 km, 10 km, and 5 km Fun Run and Walk — encouraging participation from all age groups and walks of life. It aimed to promote physical fitness, unity, and a deep sense of national pride, echoing the IAF’s enduring ethos of discipline, courage, and excellence.
Graced by CDS Gen Anil Chauhan & CAS Air Chief Marshal AP Singh – who led by example with 21 km run – the event featured skydiving displays, IAF Band performances & the unveiling of Netflix’s Operation Safed Sagar teaser. pic.twitter.com/vx3tB6PgGA
— Ministry of Defence, Government of India (@SpokespersonMoD) November 2, 2025
At Air Force Station Tambaram, the run was flagged off by Air Commodore Tapan Sharma, Air Officer Commanding, in the presence of service personnel, families, and local dignitaries. A remarkable 787 participants, including air warriors, their families, members of sister services, paramilitary forces, and civilians, took part in the event — a vibrant display of inclusivity and community spirit. Eminent leaders and reputed sportspersons also joined the run, inspiring participants and reinforcing the spirit of fitness and teamwork.
At Air Force Station Avadi, the marathon was inaugurated by Air Commodore Pradeep Sharma, Air Officer Commanding, and witnessed enthusiastic participation from service personnel and civilians alike. Group Captain Rachna Sharma (Retd), President of the Air Force Families Welfare Association (Local), joined in felicitating the winners, appreciating their dedication and sportsmanship.
Similar runs were also conducted at Air Force Stations Thanjavur and Sulur near Coimbatore, ensuring that the patriotic fervour spread across Tamil Nadu.
The Sekhon India Air Force Marathon not only honoured the indomitable spirit of Flying Officer Sekhon, whose supreme valour in the 1971 Indo-Pak War remains an inspiration for generations, but also served as a powerful reminder of the IAF’s commitment to excellence, resilience, and national unity.
Through every stride, the participants celebrated the ideals of the Indian Air Force — to run with courage, soar with pride, and inspire the nation.
