Half marathon
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, March 17 2017:
A first of its kind half marathon race under the theme 'Fight for a common cause' was organised on March 14 by Mangaal Rural.
Around 120 people took part in the marathon which was flagged off from Sekmai Koujengleima ground by Khelen Thokchom, special correspondent of The Telegraph and finished at Khonghampat Mantri Leikai playground.
The 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners were presented with a cash prize of Rs 5000, Rs 3000 and Rs 2000 respectively and a memento each.
Speaking to media persons, Surjit Ningthoujam, proprietor of Mangaal Rural said that the half marathon was organised with the aim of bringing the different communities together against the various problems faced by the State like unavailability of proper drinking water and electricity.
He said that Mangaal Rural is planning to organise many events like mega marathon races in order to help the communities fight such basic problems.
"Mangaal Rural's journey began from the villages which faced problems of water and electricity", he added.
Surjit said, "Mangaal Rural believes that only modern products, services and technologies can bring development.
But it is a challenge to provide such facilities to the people at affordable rates and to make these facilities available to the rural people.
"As such, Mangaal Rural has been providing affordable solar home lighting systems to the people at easy instalments since 2011," he added.
Khelen Thokchom said, "It is indeed heartening to see parents motivating their children and kids to join such marathons.
It is extremely helpful for the children and kids to participate in such events as it promotes social skills aside from improving their health".
He pointed out that such events are also a good platform to educate the people about the dangers of drug abuse.
The half marathon race was also organised specially for the children and the top three winners were awarded with a school bag and memento each.