Assam Rifles conducts Half Marathon 2024
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, November 24 2024: Assam Rifles organised the fourth edition of the Assam Rifles Half Marathon 2024 on Sunday at the Headquarters of Directorate General Assam Rifles, Laitkor, Shillong, as part of its efforts to promote the "Fit India Movement".

The marathon, first introduced in 2021, has gained increasing popularity among running enthusiasts across the country.

This year, the event saw participation from 28 states and 3 Union Territories, with over 1,900 individuals across all genders and age groups, exemplifying the spirit of unity in diversity and promoting national integration, said a press release from IGAR (S).

Legendary international boxer and former Member of Rajya Sabha MC Mary Kom was the brand ambassador of the event and participated in the 10 km run.

The marathon was held against the stunning backdrop of the East Khasi Hills in Laitkor and was attended by dignitaries from the government, armed forces, and volunteers from across the country.

The Half Marathon featured three race categories: the 21 km Cloud Chase, the 10 km Pine Path, and the 5 km Crystal Stream.

A total of 347 participants competed in the 21 km race, 826 in the 10 km race, and 776 in the 5 km race.

Medals, certificates, and T-shirts were awarded to participants, recognising their achievements, while cash prizes amounting to Rs 18.15 lakh were distributed among 48 winners across various categories.

In addition, 150 consolation prizes were also presented.

In the overall category, Kailash Chaudhary of the 20 Assam Rifles won the 21 km race with a time of 01:05:30 hours, while Anjali Kumari from Bihar claimed the women's category with a time of 01:19:43 hours.

The chief guest, Air Marshal in Shillong Surat Singh, AOC-in-C Eastern Air Command, praised the enthusiasm and spirit of both the participants and the spectators, personally handing over the prizes to the winners of the 21 km and 10 km categories.

This year's event, which has grown in scale and popularity, saw a marked increase in participation compared to the previous year.

The marathon was also promoted as the first "Green Marathon" in the North East, with an emphasis on zero plastic use and waste recycling, the release further said.

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

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