4th Assam Rifles Half Marathon kicks off with over 1,900 runners
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, November 24 2024: The much awaited 4th edition of the "Assam Rifles Half Marathon 2024" kicked off on Sunday in Shillong.

The marathon saw an overwhelming response as over 1,900 runners from all age groups, representing 28 States and 3 Union Territories, took part in the event.

The marathon organised under the "Fit India Movement" was flagged off from the Headquarters of Directorate General Assam Rifles at Laitkor in Shillong.

According to a release issued by HQ IGAR(South), the event was first conducted in the year 2021 and thereafter it is gaining popularity amongst the running enthusiasts throughout the country.

Legendary international boxer MC Mary Kom (former Member of RajyaSabha) was the brand ambassador of the event and participated in the 10 Km run.

The event was conducted against the backdrop of the scenic and majestic hills of East Khasi District at Laitkor and was graced by several dignitaries from the Government, Armed Forces and volunteers from all over the country.

The Half Marathon had three categories- Cloud Chase of 21 Km, Pine Path of 10 Km and Crystal Stream of 5 Km.

The overall participation was over 1,900 with 347 in the 21 Km Half Marathon, 826 in 10 Km and 776 in 5 Km categories.

Participants were awarded medals, certificates in recognition of their efforts and T-shirts as souvenirs.

150 consolation prizes were also given away.

Cash prizes worth Rs 18.15 lakh were also awarded to 48 runners of various categories.

Kailash Chaudhary from 20 Assam Rifles won the 21 Km run under Overall Category with the timing of 01:05:30 hrs and Anjali Kumari from Bihar secured 1st position in the Female category with the timing of 01:19:43 hrs.

Air Marshal Surat Singh, AVSM, VM.

VSM, AOC-in-C Eastern Air Command graced the occasion as the chief guest and appreciated the enthusiasm and spirit of the participants and the spectators.

He handed over the prizes to the winners of the 21 Km and 10 km category.

Notably, the Assam Rifles popularly known as the 'Sentinels of the North East' is committed to peace and development of the North East.

It regularly conducts numerous events promoting the "Fit India Movement".

The 4th AR Half Marathon has been promoted as the 1 st Green Marathon in the North East, emphasizing environmental sustainability through zero plastic use and waste recycling initiatives.

The Assam Rifles has thanked all the sponsors of the event namely SBI Bank, ICICI Bank, YES Bank, IDFC First Bank, Punjab & Sindh Bank, Indian Oil Corporation Ltd, TATA Advanced Systems and the organiser lamSports for the smooth conduct of the event.

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