The Seng Khasi Kmie organised the ‘Sarong La Ka Jong Run’, comprising 10km and 5km races, here on March 1 as part of the organisation’s year-long 125th anniversary celebrations, with over 1,300 runners taking part.
The two races began and ended at the Seng Khasi’s Weiking Ground in Jaiaw. There were several categories for men and women – 10km open, 10km for those above 50 years, 5km open and 5km for members of the Niam Khasi and Niamtre faiths.
The winners of the 10km open races received Rs 8,000 each, those of the 10km 50-plus races Rs 4,000 each and those of both categories of 5km race Rs 5,000 each. There was also prize money for the other podium finishers and consolation prizes for those who finished in the Top 8. Medals were also awarded to all the finishers.
The organisers also felicitated Kmoin Wahlang, the U Kiang Nangbah Award 2025 winner, who also took part in the run.
In all there were 1,349 runners, including some of the best local long distance athletes, from the different districts of Meghalaya and even further afield. The event thus brought together a wide range of runners, from different age groups, communities and faiths – a true celebration of the state and country’s unity in diversity.
The winners of each category were Rishanmehi Ryngkhlem (male 10km open category), Lari Marbaniang (female 10km open category), Badon Sing Tham (male 10km above 50 years), Menamary Wahlang (female 10km above 50 years), Iwell John Ramsiej (male 5km open), Marqueenless Ramsiej (female 5km open), Dabit Dkhar (male 5km Niam Khasi/Niamtre) and Balasiewdor Pathaw (female 5km Niam Khasi/Niamtre)