More than 40,500 runners registered their attendance
Dr. Shri Krishna Sharma
New Delhi. The 20th edition of the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, which started from the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi, witnessed a great enthusiasm and celebration with over 40,500 runners participating. Chief Minister of the National Capital Territory of Delhi, Rekha Gupta, said, “It was a beautiful, energetic morning in Delhi. This morning truly belonged to the city and its people. When 1.4 billion Indians come together for fitness, no obstacle can stop us, and no one can stop us. This will ensure that the nation will surely move forward.” The event was flagged off in the presence of several dignitaries, including the Honorable Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, Vinay Kumar Saxena, Union Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, and Chief of Defence Staff, General Anil Chauhan. Also present were top officials from the Army, Navy, and Air Force. For the first time, all three defense forces fielded senior officers as participants, led by Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, Lieutenant General Rahul R. Singh, and Vice Admiral L.S. Pathania. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also participated in the half marathon, and his sons also participated in the 10-kilometer race.
International event ambassador and Olympic legend Carl Lewis cheered from the sidelines. He was joined by Olympic bronze medalist and Puma ambassador Sarabjot Singh and Commonwealth Games medalist Tejaswin Shankar. Carl Lewis said, “As a runner myself, I’m always amazed at how these athletes can run so fast for so long. It’s incredible.” He added that today’s male and female runners were amazing. Now, women are also openly participating in marathons, which shows how far the sport has come.
The Kenyans once again maintained their dominance in the elite category. Alex Matata won the men’s race in 59:50 minutes, while Lilian Kasat Rengruk took the women’s crown with a time of 1:07:20 hours. Among Indians, Abhishek Pal claimed his third VDHM title in 1:04:17 hours. Seema won the women’s race with a timing of 1:11:23 hours. Delhi celebrated another festival ahead of the Diwali festivities. (Sports Editor)
