Shillong (Meghalaya ), Sept 21 : The State’s most awaited run of the season, the Sohra International Half Marathon, concluded its third edition on Saturday. The event was organised by the Department of Sports, the Meghalaya State Olympic Association, and the Meghalaya Athletics Association. The technical conduct of the event was conducted seamlessly as per Indian Athletics Standards and overseen by officials of the Federation.
7200 Runners from across the world, as well as a sizable number of local community participants, participated in all events – the 21K, the 10K, and the Run for Fun (5K). The participation numbers are also a sign of the increased interest in the event on a national scale, with a building international presence in progress. In addition, over 2000 runners from Sohra itself participated in the event. The local communities also came together to support the organisation of the event from volunteering to cleaning, as well as turned up to cheer the runners on!
The results showcased strong competition amongst the lead runners, with the winner of the 21K Men’s event, Akashay Kumar, completing the race in a staggering 1:03:00 (One Hour, Three Minutes)! Ankita Ben Gavit, the winner of the 21K Women’s event, completed the race in 1:40:04, beating second place by just point zero eighth of a second!
Kyrmen Shylla, Minister of Excise, attended the event, and spoke to the crowds and lauded their commitment to health and fitness, as well as the power of sport to bring people together.
Members of Legislative Assembly, Gavin Miguel Mylliemngap (MLA Sohra) and Balajied KuparSynrem (MLA Shella) also came to support the runners and be a part of the activity in the region. Titos Chyne (MDC Sohra) and Bajop Pyngrope (MDC Rambrai) were also present at the event.
The event is a part of the Government’s ongoing initiatives to support a healthier lifestyle amongst the citizens of Meghalaya, as well as develop the tourism infrastructure of the region, promoting more footfall to the state, increasing scope for local jobs and entrepreneurs, as well as building a stronger bond amongst the community.
