Behind the Scenes at Airtel Delhi Half Marathon 2015

The Airtel Delhi Half Marathon, like every year, was held this year too. The only difference this year was, that this time, the atmosphere was even more electric, bigger and better. INLEAD gave us a chance to see the backend operations and organise the marathon as an extended family of Procam (the Organisers for the event).

We reached Jawahar Lal Nehru Stadium a day prior to organise and manage the entire marathon. We were given the ID Cards with Full Access to all parts of the stadium along with the course of race. Our excitement quotient was at its all times peek.

After the briefing, we were taken for the entire site inspection and told about each and every aspect, ranging from refreshments to medals and even the celebrity hospitality. We were then divided into different teams taking care of refreshments, race for physically handicapped, senior citizens and the complete course facilities.

After the complete night of efforts, organising for a smooth marathon, finally the time came for the big day, the race.

The atmosphere was electrifying and there was an amazing energy inside the stadium. Watching 35000 Delhites gathered for marathon and racers/Olympians/record holders from around the world was exquisite. Celebrities like Bipasha Basu and Chief Minister of Delhi, Mr. Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia, Vijay Goel etc. were some present there. The loud sound of DJ and the enthusiasm of senior citizens and physically handicapped racers gave us goosebumps. This site gave us an indication that we were not dealing with the event itself but with the emotions of the people as well. Giving them a unique experience was our responsibility which we tried to deliver to the tee.

Our duties included welcoming participants, supervising the entire refreshment chain, course management, marquee management, merchandise management, corporate management and celebrity management.

The refreshment team, continuously distributed refreshments for 2 hours, without skipping even a breath. The team with senior citizens and physically handicapped were very responsible and took care of them in the most effective and patient way they could.

We too, were handled like family by the organisers ie. Procam. Proper lunch, dinner and breakfast was provided to us. We were also given several branded event merchandise like t-shirts, caps, etc.
On the whole, it was one of a kind experience that we experienced and will cherish for a long time.