The Mawlynnong Runsafari Half Marathon witnessed over 200 runners from India and Bangladesh competing in the picturesque countryside on Saturday.
The event was divided into three categories – 21.1km, 12km and 5km. Runners darted through the village roads of Mawlynnong, Nohwet, Rewai and Nongeitniang.
It was a mixed marathon in which runners ran on village roads and trails and at one point had to cross one of the state’s famous root bridges.
One of the highlights of the event was the participation of 50 runners from Bangladesh. Most of the runners from the neighbouring country were mesmerised by the scenic beauty of the area.
In the 21.1km female category, Darishisha Iangjuh crossed the finish line well ahead of the pack in a time of 1 hour, 53 minutes, 53 seconds. Bandasharai Marwein was second (2:01:11) ahead of third-placed Ibanriakor Lyngkhoi (2:12:06).
In the men’s division, Jomingstar Ramsiej came first (1:22:42), Batsrang A Sangma second (1:25:01) and Revaldo Rynjah third (1:32:35).
In the senior female category, 74-year-old Kmoin Wahlang took first place in an exceptional time of 2 hours, 12 minutes, 32 seconds. That also gave her the fourth-fastest time of the general women’s category and she was less than half a minute behind the third-placed Lyngkhoi. The corresponding men’s division was won by 55-year-old Jefferson Kharnaior (1:55:26).
The event was supported by the state Tourism Department, Deputy Commissioner of East Khasi Hills, Sub-Divisional Officer of Pynursla, Shillong Press Club and Mawlynnong and surrounding villages. The event was flagged off by the SDO, EL Warjri.
