Shillong ( Meghalaya), Dec 21 : The Department of Sports & Youth Affairs, Government of Meghalaya together with State Olympic Association and Meghalaya Athletics Association successfully organized the 1st Sohra International Half Marathon on Wednesday, 21st December .
The Half Marathon is also recognized by World Athletics and the Athletics Federation of India (AFI).
Known for its scenic beauty and majestic falls, Sohra provided a scenic route along which the run occurred. The course of the event was from Laitsohpliah Village (6 Km ahead of Mawkdok Bridge) to Mawsmai, Nohsngithiang Falls viewpoint. The event was conducted in four categories i.e., Elite Men & Women (21 K), Meghalayan PRC Men & Women (21 K), above 50 Men & Women (10 K) and Run for Fun (5 K).
Over 750 Runners from across Meghalaya participated in the four events, as well as 7 International runners with tremendous experience of marathons across the world.
Adisu Bekele Abebe, from Ethiopia, was the winner of the Elite Men 21K category, while India’s Richa Bhaduria won the Elite Women 21K category. Meghalaya’s own Skhemlang Suba and Kyntimon Marwein won the Meghalayan PRC Men and Women runs respectively, with impressive timings that can compete with world class athletes.
The organisation of the event was immaculately timed, with each event happening on the same route along the hills of Sohra. In coordination with AFI Delegates, the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs and the Meghalaya State Olympic Association ensured a vibrant atmosphere with every possible facility, from on-hand medical services, to transport and catering services.
The winners and participants were awarded and felicitated by the chief guest for the event S Sampath Kumar, Principal Secretary, Department of Health and Family Welfare. Dr Vijay Kumar D , Commissioner and Secretary, Department of Sports & Youth Affairs also graced the occasion as a guest of honour for the event.
The Director Sports &Youth Affairs, Meghalaya Shivansh Awasthi (IAS) and John S Kharshiing, acting president of the Meghalaya State Olympic Association also graced the occasion as guest of honours.
The Sohra International Half Marathon will keep returning every year with more International and National participants as promised by Finely Pariat, General Secretary, Meghalaya State Olympic Association.
