All-Women Pacer Team Announced for TCS World 10K Bengaluru Ahead of International Women’s Day Rising female participation marks a new milestone as 14 women pacers prepare to guide runners at the 18th edition on April 26 Women Power Takes Centre Stage in Bengaluru’s Iconic Race

 

All-Women Pacer Team Announced for TCS World 10K Bengaluru Ahead of International Women’s Day

Rising female participation marks a new milestone as 14 women pacers prepare to guide runners at the 18th edition on April 26

Women Power Takes Centre Stage in Bengaluru’s Iconic Race

Bengaluru : The TCS World 10K Bengaluru has once again celebrated the spirit of women in sport by announcing its all-women pacer team ahead of International Women’s Day. The announcement by Procam International marks a special tradition associated with the World Athletics Gold Label Race, which will return for its 18th edition on Sunday, April 26. The initiative highlights the remarkable growth of women in the running community and reinforces the event’s commitment to promoting inclusivity and fitness.

 

Steady Rise in Women Participation

Over the years, the race has witnessed a dramatic rise in female participation. From nearly 4,000 women runners in 2008, the most recent edition saw over 9,000 women take part, accounting for almost one-third of the total runners on race day. Reflecting the growing enthusiasm, registrations for the Open 10K category were fully booked within six days, the fastest in the event’s history.

 

14 Women Pacers to Guide Runners

Continuing the tradition, 14 experienced women pacers will guide participants across different finish-time categories. Their role is crucial in helping runners maintain pace, manage their energy and stay motivated throughout the race. The pacer team includes Mehwish Hussain (50 mins, Mangalore), Jayasree Vanama (55 mins, Telangana), Dr. Beneeta Kiran (56 mins, Bengaluru), Niyati Kotian (58 mins, Bengaluru), Payal Ashar (60 mins, Mumbai), Indumathi Nair (60 mins, Bengaluru), Dr. Lakshmi Roopesh (65 mins, Bengaluru), Dr. Meenakshi Hariharan (70 mins, Guwahati), Jahnnavi Gowda (70 mins, Bengaluru), Divya Madaiah (70 mins, Coorg), Sangeeta Kumari (75 mins, Bengaluru), Sarika Sharma (80 mins, Ahmedabad), Sony Kumari (83 mins, Bengaluru) and Narmada J (85 mins, Bengaluru).

 

Women Pacers Share Their Inspiration

Jahnnavi Gowda, a 42-year-old banker, believes women’s growing participation in running can create a healthier society. She said that pacing is a major responsibility because runners trust pacers to help them achieve their target time. Encouraging runners in the final stretch, she added, is one of the most rewarding aspects of the role.

 

Similarly, Dr. Lakshmi Roopesh, aged 43, described running as the most accessible way for women to begin their fitness journey. According to her, running brings a sense of calm and focus, while pacing gives the satisfaction of helping others achieve their goals.

 

Running as a Lifestyle and Community

Corporate executive Narmada Jayaram, who started running nearly eight years ago, shared how the sport has become a vital part of her lifestyle. She explained that running helps maintain physical fitness, mental well-being and professional balance. She also highlighted the strong sense of community among runners, saying that the camaraderie within running groups keeps participants motivated and connected.

 

A Tradition that Inspires Thousands

Vivek Singh, Joint Managing Director of Procam International, emphasised that the all-women pacer team has become a defining tradition of the race. According to him, these pacers not only guide runners to their target times but also inspire thousands of participants. The growing presence of women runners continues to shape the vibrant spirit of the TCS World 10K Bengaluru each year.