From Our Special Correspondent
GUWAHATI, Dec 3: The Gateway to India’s Northeast woke up to witness a remarkable spectacle as thousands of runners from all across the country participated in the first ever ‘Coal India Guwahati half-marathon’ conducted at Sarusajai Stadium in the city.
The half marathon, the first of its kind in the region, was organised under the aegis of Eastern Command of the Indian Army in coordination with the Assam government and Coal India Limited. With the motto of ‘Amar Run, Amar Utsav’, the event witnessed participation of over thousand participants under the categories of 21km, 10km and 5km in different age groups.
The Sarusajai Stadium was teeming with energy even before the sunrise, decked up in colourful themes symbolising celebration and festival. The route of the run was interspersed with cheering zones, dance troupes and bands all along. The determination and grit shown by the differently abled who participated in 5 km run further added to the spirit of the event. Over 800 women and girls participated in the event in various categories.More than 5000 runners participated in the event with Nazeem Pulikkal adjudged the winner in the half marathon male category while Phurba Tamang was adjudged the winner in the female category. The event was graced by Assam sports and youth welfare Nandita Garlosa, Lt Gen RP Kalita, GOC-in-C, Eastern Command, Lt Gen Manish Erry, GOC 4 Corps and many other senior civil and military dignitaries.
The event concluded with prize and medal distribution to the winners and participants.