Times Internet half marathon: Women who stood strong in the 21K | India News
In the calm stillness of dawn at India Gate, the city breathed before the waves. At exactly 5.30am, the 21K race of the Times Internet Half Marathon 2026 was flagged off, leaving a field of 2,639 runners on one of the capital’s most exciting stretches.The opening kilometers were steady and controlled. Runners settle into their pace, conserving energy for the next stage. As Delhi slowly wakes up, its wide streets and historic surroundings set the stage for a competition that will soon turn into a true test of endurance.Because a half-marathon doesn’t reveal itself at the start.The 21K course cuts through the formal center of the capital along wide, tree-lined boulevards connecting the main centers of governance. Long, open stretches test pacing, while gentle bends demand control – making for a route that challenges not just endurance, but composure with every step.
Arpita Saini : Calm ahead
Arpita Saini claimed the top spot with a chip time of 01:25:01, delivering a race built on control and clarity.At the age of 30, his journey into running began only a few years ago, fueled by a simple but powerful image – young candidates from his village preparing for army recruitment. What started as curiosity soon turned into commitment. Initial hesitation at home gradually gave way to faith, as her persistence reshaped perceptions.On race day, there was no extravagance, no rush. He settled early, held his rhythm in the middle and when the race demanded resilience, he responded with authority. In the final stretch, he didn’t chase the race—he commanded it.
Ruksana : Accuracy through Discipline
Ruksana’s performance in second place with a chip time of 01:27:38 was a study in composition and poise.A national-level distance runner and Khelo India Games medalist, she continues to balance the rigors of competitive sports with academics as a second-year college student. Training under the careful guidance of his father, a PT teacher, his foundation is rooted in discipline.His preparation reflects this systematic approach. On race day, this translated seamlessly – controlled early kilometers, a steady build-up, and an unwavering hold in the demanding final stages. There was no visible struggle, only quiet execution.
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take up land : Power in progress
Bhumi Negi finished third with a chip time of 01:34:33, completing the podium with a performance that emphasized endurance and progression.Having started his running journey at a young age, he has steadily transitioned from shorter distances to longer formats, gaining recognition at both national and international levels. His growth has been incremental, but sure.His race reflected that evolution. Conservative at the start, calculated through the middle, and resilient when the race takes its grip. As exhaustion built across the field, he found another gear—one driven by experience, not haste.
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Where the race is won
After the 17th km, the race gets really tough. Runners begin to feel tired and require more effort with each step. This is where real strength comes in – not in how fast you run, but in your ability to keep going.Arpita Saini, Ruksana, and Bhumi Negi did more than navigate these final kilometers.They defined them.One of thousands, on a course that tested both body and mind, these women didn’t just finish the 21K—they upped it, not just for performance, but to define what it means to endure, adapt, and ultimately win.
