By Our Reporter
Shillong, Aug 28: The fourth edition of the 21K Sohra International Half Marathon, scheduled for September 27, has already attracted 6,808 participants, with organisers anticipating a record turnout this year. Among them are five elite international runners from Kenya.
In the 21K Elite category, 82 men and 17 women have signed up, while the 21K Meghalaya Open has seen 115 men and 16 women register.
The 10K Open (18 years and above) features 710 men and 164 women, and the 10K Open (above 55 years) includes 19 men and 11 women.The popular 5K Run for Fun has drawn 2,000 offline registrations at Sohra Shop, along with 2,543 student participants from local schools. Additionally, 142 runners from outside Meghalaya have confirmed their entries.
Meghalaya State Olympic Association (MSOA) general secretary, Finely Pariat, told the media on Wednesday that the top 10 finishers may undergo dope tests if required.
He also indicated that registrations could close before September 10 if numbers exceed manageable limits.
The event is recognised by the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) and jointly organised by the Meghalaya Athletics Association, MSOA, and the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs.
The 5K Run will flag off at 5:30 am from C.P. School, Sohra, followed by the 10K at 6:00 am and the 21K at 6:15 am. Special prizes have been announced, including consolation awards for participants above 50 years completing the 21K and gift packs for the first 200 finishers of the “Run for Fun” (100 boys and 100 girls).