Mumbai, Feb 10: The first-ever edition of Run InSync, an inclusive running event designed to bring together individuals with and without disabilities, successfully debuted in Pune on February 8, 2025. Organized by Adventures Beyond Barriers Foundation (ABBF) and SVP India, with the support of Bajaj Finserv under its social impact initiatives, the event saw overwhelming participation, with registrations filling up well in advance. This milestone event also marks an official world record attempt with the World Book of Records, setting a precedent for large-scale inclusive sports in India.
With over 63.28 million persons with disabilities in the country, Run InSync serves as a transformative initiative, challenging societal norms and promoting inclusion through sports. Participants of all abilities traversed a designated route through Pune University, demonstrating the power of collective action in fostering empathy, breaking barriers, and advocating for an inclusive future.
Divyanshu Ganatra, Founder of Adventures Beyond Barriers Foundation, emphasized, “Run InSync is more than just a race; it’s a movement towards changing perspectives and fostering inclusivity across all spheres of life. The overwhelming response reflects the growing commitment to breaking stereotypes and embracing diversity.”
Echoing this sentiment, Ripple Mirchandani, Chapter Chair – Pune, at SVP India, remarked, “At SVP India, we believe in driving meaningful social change through collaboration and innovation. Our partnership with ABBF for *Run InSync* aligns with our mission to empower communities. This initiative exemplifies the power of inclusion and the transformative impact of collective effort.”
Shefali Bajaj, Chairperson, CSR Steering Committee at Bajaj Finserv, added, “Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities is a key focus for Bajaj Finserv’s CSR initiatives. We actively support programs that create equitable opportunities and facilitate the integration of PwDs into mainstream society. Through *Run InSync*, we aim to send a powerful message about inclusion, where able-bodied individuals and persons with disabilities run side by side, fostering empowerment and unity.”
The event also received significant backing from the CSR initiatives of Pune-based Tata Autocomp and Xoriant Solutions Pvt. Ltd., along with the wholehearted support of Dr. Geeta Shinde and Mr. Dhananjay Bhole from Pune University.
