(Pratyusha Mukherjee, Shillong, Meghalaya)
The friends of Hilly People- Assam Rifles organised the Fourth Edition of the “Assam Rifles Half Marathon 2024″ on 24th Nov 2024, at the Headquarters of Directorate General Assam Rifles, Laitkor, Shillong, to promote the “Fit India Movement”. The event was first conducted in the year 2021 and thereafter it is gaining popularity amongst the running enthusiasts throughout the country. This year the event saw representation from 28 States and 03 Union Territories with over 1900 participants. The participants consisted from all genders and age categories which displayed the spirit of unity in diversity and promoted National Unity
Legendary International Boxer MC Mary Kom (Former Member of Rajya Sabha) 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 was in three categories, Cloud Chase of 21 Km. Pine Path of 10 Km and Crystal Stream of 5 Km. Participation was in all age groups in each category. The overall participation was over 1900 with 347 in 21Km Half Marathon, 826 in 10 Km and 776 in 5 Km categories. Participants were provided with Medals, Certificates in recognition of their efforts and T-Shirts as souvenirs. Cash prizes worth Rs 18.15 lakhs were awarded to 48 runners of various categories. Besides this 150 consolation prizes were also given away. Under Overall category Mr. Kailash Chaudhary from 20 Assam Rifles was the winner in 21 Km run with the timing of 01:05:30 hrs and Miss Anjali Kumari from Bihar was the winner in 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 21 Km and 10 km category*.
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 “Fit India Movement”. The event which is aimed to foster a culture of wellness, fitness and togetherness in the North East Is growing in popularity year on year more than doubling the number participants as compared to last year.
The event has been promoted as a first Green Marathon in North East with zero plastic promoting Recycling of the waste.
(With Inputs from DGAR)
