SHILLONG, Dec21:The Department of Sports & Youth Affairs, Government of Meghalaya together in collaboration with Meghalaya State Olympic Association and Meghalaya Athletics Association successfully organized the 1st Sohra International Half Marathon on Wednesday, 21st December 2022.
The Half Marathon is also recognized by World Athletics and the Athletics Federation of India (AFI).Known for its scenic beauty and majestic falls, Sohra provided a scenic route along which the run took place.
The course of the event was from Laitsohpliah Village (6 Km ahead of MawkdokBridge) to Mawsmai, Nohsngithiang Falls viewpoint.
The event was conducted in four categories, Elite Men & Women (21 K), Meghalayan PRC Men & Women (21 K), above 50 Men &Women (10 K) and Run for Fun (5 K).
Over 750 Runners from across Meghalaya participated in the four events, as well as 7International runners with tremendous experience of marathons across the world.
Adisu Bekele Abebe, from Ethiopia, was the winner of the Elite Men 21K category, while India’s Richa Bhaduria won the Elite Women 21K category. Meghalaya’s own Skhemlang Suba and Kyntimon Marwein won the Meghalayan PRC Men and Women runs respectively, with impressive timings that can compete with world class athletes.In coordination with AFI Delegates, the Department of Sports andYouth Affairs and the Meghalaya State Olympic Association (MSOA) ensured a vibrant atmosphere withevery possible facility, from on-hand medical services, to transport and catering services.
The winners and participants were awarded and felicitated by the chief guest for the event Principal Secretary, Department of Health and Family Welfare Sampath Kumar. Commissioner and Secretary, Department of Sports & Youth Affairs Vijay Kumar also graced the occasion as a guest of honour for the event.
The Director Sports & Youth Affairs Shivansh Awasthi and John F Kharshiing, acting president of the Meghalaya State Olympic Association also graced the occasion as guest ofhonours.
General secretary of MSOA Finely Pariat promised of conducting the Sohra Marathon annualy with the participation of many more International and National runners.
