By Our Reporter
Shillong, Dec 14: Sandeep Devrari of 20 Kumaon, Indian Army and Tamsi Singh of Varanasi emerged as the standout performers at the fifth edition of the Assam Rifles Half Marathon 2025, which was held with much enthusiasm at the Headquarters of the Directorate General Assam Rifles, Laitkor, on Sunday.
Devrari clinched the men’s 21 km Cloud Chase title with an impressive timing of 1 hour 7 minutes, while Tamsi Singh topped the women’s category of the same distance, clocking 1 hour 23 minutes to cap a memorable morning for competitive runners and fitness enthusiasts alike.
Organised as part of the “Fit India Movement”, the annual event — first launched in 2021 — has steadily grown into one of the most popular long-distance running events in the region. This year’s edition marked a new milestone, attracting over 3,000 participants from across the country.
A total of 3,038 runners representing 26 states and two Union Territories took part, underscoring the event’s national character and its message of unity through sport. The marathon was conducted in three categories — the 21 km Cloud Chase, the 10 km Pine Path and the 5 km Crystal Stream — catering to runners across age groups and experience levels.Of the total field, 559 athletes competed in the half marathon, while 1,502 runners lined up for the 10 km race and 977 took part in the 5 km run. All finishers were awarded medals and certificates, along with commemorative T-shirts, in recognition of their participation and effort.
Cash prizes amounting to ₹20 lakh were distributed among 48 runners across various categories, with several consolation prizes also handed out, adding to the festive atmosphere surrounding the event.Air Marshal Surat Singh, AVSM, VM, VSM, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Air Command, attended the occasion as the chief guest, accompanied by Mrs Nisha Singh, President, Eastern Air Command, AFFWA. The chief guest lauded the participants for their enthusiasm and sporting spirit and presented prizes to winners of the 21 km and 10 km categories.
The Assam Rifles, fondly known as the “Sentinels of the North East”, reiterated their commitment to promoting health, fitness and social harmony through such initiatives. Addressing the gathering, Lt Gen Vikas Lakhera, AVSM, SM, Director General Assam Rifles, said the marathon was aimed at nurturing a culture of wellness and togetherness in the region.
