Hexaware's 15th Chennai Half Marathon Attracts Over 7,300 Runners, Raises Funds for Nonprofits

More than 7,339 runners took to the streets of Chennai for the 15th edition of the Dream Runners Half Marathon, with technology company Hexaware returning as title sponsor for the seventh straight year, according to Yahoo Finance. The event raised over INR 50 Lakhs — roughly $60,000 USD — for three nonprofit organizations.
The race, known as DRHM, is certified by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS) and uses professional timing. It welcomed both competitive runners and first-timers across its race categories.
Hexaware has now backed the Dream Runners Half Marathon seven consecutive years. That kind of long-term support is rare in corporate event sponsorship. The company said the event reflects its focus on health, community, and social impact, according to Yahoo Finance.
The 15th edition of the race marks a milestone for the event itself. What started as a local running initiative has grown into one of Chennai's signature road races, drawing thousands of participants each year.
The marathon funneled its proceeds to three nonprofits: Freedom Trust, Vijay Human Services, and the International Foundation for Crime Prevention and Victim Care. Together, they received over INR 50 Lakhs in funds raised through the event, Yahoo Finance reported.
Each organization works in a different area of social welfare. Freedom Trust and Vijay Human Services focus on community development, while the International Foundation for Crime Prevention and Victim Care supports crime victims and prevention efforts.
DRHM holds AIMS certification, a global standard that verifies a course is accurately measured and professionally managed. This matters for serious runners who want their finish times to count for qualifying purposes. Professional timing was also used throughout the race, according to Yahoo Finance.
At the same time, the event kept its doors open to first-time runners. That balance — competitive credibility alongside beginner-friendly access — helps explain why 7,339 people signed up for the 2026 edition.
A field of 7,339 runners is a strong turnout for any city road race. It shows that running culture in Chennai continues to grow. Events like DRHM give residents a structured goal to train toward, which drives participation well beyond race day.
Corporate sponsorships like Hexaware's play a big role in keeping these events alive. Funding from title sponsors covers race logistics, timing systems, and safety staff — costs that would otherwise fall on organizers or runners themselves.
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