RUN for DAV was a life-changing mini marathon in Jaipur that promoted fitness, unity, and health among students —

Jaipur, Oct.14,225:RUN for DAV began the day with renewed energy, as students, faculty, and community members gathered at DAV Centenary Public School, Jaipur, on 12 October 2025. The 2 km mini marathon was not just a race, but a celebration of health, camaraderie, and youthful enthusiasm. From the very start, participants felt the momentum—feet pounding, hearts racing, unity building-

The Vision Behind RUN for DAV

The RUN for DAV initiative is part of a larger effort under DAV Sports (DAVCAE, New Delhi) to motivate schools across India toward organizing inclusive running events. According to the DAV SPORTS circular, schools may conduct different run formats—10 km, 5 km, 2 km (Run for Fun), or even half marathons (21 km)—depending on their capacity and permission from local authorities.

By organizing RUN for DAV on a day dedicated to students’ well-being, DAV Centenary Public School in Jaipur aimed to promote health, unity, and the spirit of competition among its learners and the local community. The event also aligns with DAV’s mission to encourage physical activity as a vital component of holistic education.

Event Highlights and Milestones

Inauguration and Leadership

The inauguration of RUN for DAV in Jaipur witnessed a stellar show of leadership. Principal Mr. Ashok Kumar Sharma presided over the occasion, delivering an inspiring address urging participants to embrace physical fitness and perseverance. His message emphasized that physical strength and mental discipline go hand in hand, a notion echoing the motto: “Healthy Mind resides in a Healthy Body.”

He set a bold example by choosing not just to officiate but to run. His visible commitment energized students and teachers alike.

Student Participation & Spirit

Students from Grades IX to XII made up the bulk of the participants. The corridors, lawns, and streets surrounding the institution resonated with excitement as they lined up at the start. Some ran solo, some in pairs, and others in small groups—yet all ran with determination.

The mood was electric. Every footstep seemed to echo personal stories of effort, aspiration, and youthful zeal. The event was not merely about speed; it was a shared journey. School houses, peer groups, and staff cheering squads lent moral support, making every runner feel backed by a community.

Principal’s Participation- Leading by Example

What became a highlight of RUN for DAV was Principal Sharma’s own participation. Running side by side with students and select staff, he crossed the finish line, dispelling any notion that physical leadership belongs only to the young. His act underscored the belief that age or position should not limit one’s pursuit of fitness.

By jogging the 2 km route alongside his students, he reinforced a cultural message: leaders must walk the talk. That moment became emblematic of the entire event’s ethos.

Medical Safety and Logistics

Organizing a mass run, even a short 2 km stretch, presented logistical and safety challenges. The school arranged for a medical team from Eternal Hospital to be on standby. The presence of trained medical personnel reassured participants and guardians that emergencies would be handled with professionalism.

On site, first-aid stations were positioned strategically along the route. Water and hydration points were interspersed to prevent dehydration or heat exhaustion. Before the run, organizers also briefed participants on warm-up routines and pacing, minimizing risks of injury.

Traffic management, route marking, crowd control, and coordination with municipal authorities were handled behind the scenes. These preemptive measures made RUN for DAV not just fun, but safe.

Awards, Gratitude & Closing Moments

As the runners crossed the finish line, the palpable joy of completion filled the air. The first three students to complete the 2 km course were felicitated with awards and recognition in front of the gathering. Their names, cheered by peers, became symbols of determination.

Principal Sharma gave a heartfelt appreciation speech acknowledging every participant, staff volunteer, medical team, and organizing committee. He emphasized that even those who did not win took home something more enduring: confidence, fitness, and a sense of unity.

The day concluded with refreshments distributed among students, faculty, and support staff. Conversations flowed, smiles abounded, and the campus buzz lingered well after the event ended. To many, one thought lingered: “Healthy Mind resides in a Healthy Body.” The participants left determined to dedicate a few hours each week to their own well-being.

Why RUN for DAV Stood Out

What made RUN for DAV especially noteworthy? Here are some compelling factors:

• Grassroots Reach — While many runs are citywide or commercial, RUN for DAV was school-led, community-centric, and inclusive.
• Leadership by Example — The principal’s full participation elevated the event’s authenticity and inspired trust.
• Safety Prioritized — Having a full medical team and logistical planning enhanced credibility.
• Youth-Driven Energy — The event leveraged students’ raw enthusiasm; their passion fuelled its success.
• Modest Scale, Big Impact — At 2 km, the run was accessible—yet it left a lasting impression.

In short, RUN for DAV successfully merged the ideals of fitness, unity, and institutional pride into a single event, making it far more than just a run.

Long-Term Impacts & Call to Action

Shaping Lifelong Habits

The immediate result of RUN for DAV was exhilarating. But its long-term impact could be more profound. Students exposed to this experience may continue regular exercise, adopt healthier lifestyles, and inspire younger siblings and peers.

Scaling Across Schools

Given the success, this event can serve as a blueprint. Other DAV schools or even non-DAV institutions could replicate the model. The central DAV SPORTS body already encourages multiple formats: 10 km, 5 km, 2 km (Run for Fun), and half marathons.

Community Bonding

When the community—parents, local residents, medical staff—engages with school events, it strengthens bonds. RUN for DAV can become a recurring fixture linking the school to its neighbourhood.

A Call to Students, Schools, and Communities

• Students: Let this be the start, not the finish. Dedicate regular slots for walking, jogging, or sports.
• Schools: Organize mini health drives or runs regularly—quarterly, half-yearly, or annually.
• Communities: Support such initiatives via venues, medical support, or participation.

RUN for DAV was more than just a mini marathon. It was a movement, a statement, and a promise. Led from the front by Principal Sharma, backed by dedicated staff and a medical team, and fuelled by student zeal, it stood out as a shining example of how schools can champion health and unity.

May RUN for DAV inspire more schools across India to lace up their shoes, chart their own routes, and run—not just for the medals, but for the lasting spirit of wellness.