The Rotary Club of Panaji Mid-Town will organise the Mathias Panaji Run 2026 on Sunday, March 1, 2026, at the SAG Sports Complex, Campal, Panaji, with the flag-off scheduled at 6.30 am. Now in its second edition, the run aims to bring together fitness enthusiasts, families and the larger community under the vibrant theme “Live Life in Colour,” inspired by the approaching festival of Holi.
The event will feature a 10 km timed run with winners declared across categories, a 5 km fun run and walk open to participants of all age groups with attractive prizes, and a special 1 km walk involving NAB Goa students and Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), reinforcing the message of inclusivity through sport. Cash prizes worth ₹1 lakh will be awarded across categories.
Speaking at the media briefing held in Panaji, Rtn. Gauresh Nayak, President of the Rotary Club of Panaji Mid-Town, emphasised that the Mathias Panaji Run 2026 goes beyond competition. He said that with the theme “Live Life in Colour,” the club wants Goa to celebrate not only colours but also the values of health, unity, inclusivity and joy. He added that the run is about community spirit, ensuring that everyone—irrespective of age or ability—feels valued and included. Nayak further noted that proceeds from the event will support Rotary’s flagship initiatives in education, healthcare, disability support, sanitation and medical aid.
Event Coordinator Ann Sheetal Pai Kane expressed confidence that the run will attract nearly 2,000 participants this year. She explained that organising the event in the heart of Panaji was a conscious decision to encourage greater participation from Ponjékars. She added that the event is designed not only for runners but also for families and friends who wish to come out, cheer and be part of the experience.
Gajanan Karkare, Secretary of the club, urged citizens to participate, stating that the run is an opportunity to focus on good health while also contributing to Rotary’s ongoing social causes that impact lives across Goa. Rtn. Sunil Pai Kane, Project Director of the event, was also present at the briefing.
The Mathias Panaji Run 2026 is title-sponsored by Joe Mathias and Mariola Mathias of the Mathias Group of Companies. The sponsors expressed pride in supporting the initiative, highlighting their commitment to promoting health, wellness and community spirit in Goa, and looking forward to a strong turnout on March 1.
Founded in 1998, the Rotary Club of Panaji Mid-Town functions under Rotary International District 3170 with the motto “Service Above Self.” The club undertakes five flagship initiatives—Saksharta, Sudharta, Sahayata, Swachhata and Sanjeevani—focused on education, healthcare, disability support, sanitation and medical aid. Through the Mathias Panaji Run 2026, the club once again aims to promote a healthy lifestyle while strengthening community bonding through sport.
Registrations are open online at www.panajirun.org.
