TURA: A 22-year-old man from Tebronggre Village in West Garo Hills has turned into a marathon superstar overnight after he won the 3rd edition of the Delhi Half Marathon in the non elite (amateur, 18-25) category. Such was the dominance of his performance that he was placed 2nd in the overall run behind the professional (elite) run winner by just one minute.
Batsrang A Sangma completed the 21 km run with a timing of 1 hour 10 minutes while the elite competition winner stood at a time of 1 hour 9 minutes. Batsrang, who is the son of a farmer earlier this year too, hit the podium at the Kolkata Half Marathon standing 3rd in the amateur category.
“We are very proud of his achievements in both Kolkata and Delhi and of his being a part of the Tura Runners’ Club. After his podium finishes, we will try for the elite status for him. He is an inspiration for budding distance runners in the state especially for those from the rural belt,” said TRC member, DD Shira, who was also a part of the run in Delhi today.
Batsrang is a degree student from Durama College in Tura and is expected to reach Tura tonight from Delhi. Both the runs where he finished in the podium were Athletic Federation of India and International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS) certified races.
“Once he gets elite status, the AFI will help him in training for the future,” added Shira.
The 22 year old was felicitated for his achievement at the Republic Day celebration this year. When contacted, the young athlete said that it felt good but there was still so much more to achieve. He expressed thanks to the Tura Runners’ Club (TRC), friends, deputy commissioners of East and
West Garo Hills for their support.
A government official who supported the young runner but chose not to be named said that he can achieve much more provided he gets all the support he needs. According to the official, the government should acknowledge his achievements and encourage him so that he can make the state and the country proud.