Over 3,000 women participate in marathon for cancer awareness in Coimbatore

More than 3,000 women took part in the GEM Women’s Marathon 2026 held in Coimbatore city on Sunday to promote cancer awareness and women’s safety.

The marathon that was organised by GEM Cancer Centre in association with the GEM Foundation was flagged off by City Police Commissioner N. Kannan and Coimbatore South MLA Vanathi Srinivasan along with Dr. C. Palanivelu, chairman of GEM Hospital.

Mr. Kannan said that an exclusive marathon for women helped create awareness on women’s health and related social issues.

Dr. P. Praveen Raj, Joint Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of GEM Hospital, said participation had increased compared to the previous year. The entire proceeds from the event would be used for cancer treatment and care for underprivileged patients through the GEM Foundation.

The event featured 21 km, 10 km and 5 km races. The 21 km and 10 km events were conducted for age groups of 18–39 years, 40–49 years and 50 years and above, with the 10 km race also including an open category. The 5 km race was organised for 12–17 years and other age divisions. Three winners were declared in each division.