Asafa Powell to Grace Delhi Half Marathon

Star sprinter Asafa Powell, the athlete credited with paving the way for a decade of Jamaican domination in the sprinting events before Usain Bolt took over, will be in India next month to grace the 2016 Airtel Delhi Half Marathon.

The ninth edition of the prestigious run will be held in the capital on November 20.

The 33-year-old Olympic champion held the 100m world record holder from 2005 to 2008 with timing of 9.77 and 9.74 seconds, before compatriot Bolt hogged the limelight.

Asafa is remembered for his memorable performances at the 2004, 2008 and 2012 Olympics and also at World Championships. The Jamaican has broken the 10-second barrier in competitions a record 97 times, which gave him the title 'Sub 10 King'.

Asafa said, "I am absolutely delighted to come to India and be a part of Delhi's iconic half marathon. I've always wanted to take in the historic sites in India and, Delhi being the capital city is the perfect place to do just that. Running has always been a cause close to my heart and I am extremely pleased to see the astounding response and participation from the people of Delhi. I am looking forward to my India visit and am positive that it will be the first of many more to come."

Powell's personal best of 9.72 s is the fifth fastest time in the history of the event.

Promoted by Procam International, the Delhi Half Marathon will witness over 34,000 participants including world class Indian and international athletes, professional and amateur runners, and of course, fitness enthusiasts.

ADHM, one of the fastest half marathon courses in the world offers runners a beautiful glimpse of the historic city, passing renowned landmarks like the Parliament House, Rajpath, India Gate, Delhi Golf Club, Lodhi Road, Sansad Marg among others.

We are 25 days away .... Airtel Delhi Half Marathon are you ready? PUMA , PUMA Running &... https://t.co/7cjRhlC3S8 pic.twitter.com/zmuhAVU9Oy

— Asafa Powell (@officialasafa) October 25, 2016

Abhishek Ganguly, Managing Director, PUMA India, said, "We are extremely thrilled to get Asafa Powell to the Airtel Delhi Half Marathon. Asafa is one of the fastest runners in the world and his record has been phenomenal. At PUMA we believe we are at the cusp of a Running revolution and associations such as ADHM and TSK25 only furthers our endeavour."

Vivek Singh, Jt. Managing Director, Procam International said, "We are extremely excited and honored to have a sporting legend like Asafa Powell for the Airtel Delhi Half Marathon 2016. Today, the event is the choice of the champions and we have world-class athletes competing in Delhi. In addition to that, over 34, 000 participants are set to take the start line on Sunday, 20th November. We are sure Asafa's presence will give them added motivation and encourage them to achieve their personal best."