Governor of Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh, Brigadier B D Mishra (Retd) graced the prize distribution ceremony of the second edition of Half Marathon organised by Assam Rifles as part of “Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav” celebrations today at the headquarters of Directorate General Assam Rifles, Laitkor, Shillong.
The Half Marathon commemorates Amrit Mahotsav (Diamond Jubilee) of independence of India and the glorious post independent history of its people, its culture, and its achievements. These celebrations appropriately encompass the “Fit India Movement” as well.
The run was open to men and women of various age groups. The core theme for the event was to promote the spirit of unity and National integrity.
Handing over the prizes to the winners in the marathon, the Governor appreciated the enthusiasm and spirit of the participants and the organisers.
Conducted in the scenic and majestic ambience of the hills of East Khasi District at Laitkor, the event was a major success as it had massive and enthusiastic participation of serving personnel and families of Assam Rifles, Army, Air Force, CRPF, CISF, SSB, BSF and Meghalaya Police.
Adding the local fervour to the event, some of the acclaimed Cross Country runners from Meghalaya Olympic Association also took part in the mega event and presented a challenge to the runners of the armed forces and central armed police forces.
The three categories of the run were for 21 Kms, 10 Kms and 5 Kms and each category had the segment of different age groups. A total of 303 people participated in the 21 Kms run, 512 in the 10 Kms run and 224 in the 5 Kms run.
The élan and spirit of the Marathon got a zestful fillip with the participation of ladies and children in all categories. Children barely of five years of age also participated and successfully completed the 5 km category run thus showing their resolve and physical fitness.
The winners of 21 Kms run in various age groups included Emphius Nongrum and Darisha Iangjuh in 21 to 30 years age group; Suvisje and Lieutenant Colonel Shreya Rawat in 31 to 40 years age group; Commandant Pramod Kumar and Aarti Yadav in 41 to 50 age group; Colonel Eben Simeon and Beena Venkatesh in over 50 years age group; Lieutenant General P C Nair, Director General of Assam Rifles participated in over 50 years age group of 21 Kms run and won a prize.
