A 21-kilometre marathon for men and women, along with a 10-kilometre fun run, was organised from Basic Ground, Kakching Chumnang, under the motto “Run for Peace and Unity”, with the objective of promoting physical fitness, discouraging substance abuse and building a drug-free society.
The marathon began and concluded at Basic Ground, Kakching Chumnang, with around 1,000 runners participating.
In the women’s 21-kilometre category, Tayenjam Russia Chanu of Ngairangbam, Konthoujam, Imphal West, secured the first position, followed by Makakmayum Minarashi of Yairipok Tulihal Mayai Leikai in second place and Tongbram Sophiya Chanu of Nambol Balaram Khul Mamang Leikai in third place.
In the men’s category, Kh. Zabed Hussain of Lilong Haoreibi Turel Ahanbi Ubakthong Makha bagged the first position, while Yumnam Barlin of Heirok Part II Devimandop Leikai secured the second position and Moirangthem Manithoi of Moirang Thamnapokpi finished third.
The first, second and third prize winners in both categories received cash awards of Rs. 30,000, Rs. 20,000 and Rs. 10,000 respectively.
Mayanglambam Rameshwar, MLA of Kakching Assembly Constituency; Dr. Thokchom Radheshyam, MLA of Heirok Assembly Constituency; Dr. Usham Deben, MLA of Wabagai Assembly Constituency; Naorem Praveen (IAS), Secretary (YAS/MIDA/CADA/Art & Culture), Government of Manipur; social worker Ksh. Kennedy; Md. Alauddin (Nanao); and the President of Kakching Runners attended the event. They flagged off the marathon and distributed prizes to the winners and consolation prize recipients.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Yengkhom Ashokkumar, Director of the Kakching Marathon, said participation was relatively lower this year compared to previous editions due to the prevailing unrest in Manipur. Around 1,000 runners, however, took part in the event.
He said the marathon has been organised consistently with the aim of keeping people away from substance abuse, encouraging physical well-being and contributing towards a peaceful, stable, disease-free and developed society.