2,200 take part in mini-marathon

Tribune News Service

Ambala, January 22

A five-km mini-marathon titled ‘Run for the Nation’ was organised by the Ambala Cantonment Board here today. SC Kaushik, principal director, Defence Estate Western Command, flagged off the marathon. Kaushik said, “It is a step to make people aware about cleanliness and health. The large turnout indicates the enthusiasm among the people.”

The marathon was organised in four different categories. Participants of 14 to 50 years of age took part in the event. Students from different schools, NCC cadets, police and army personnel, specially-abled kids from Asha School and Vatsalya School besides the general public participated in the marathon.

Varun Kalia, CEO, Ambala Cantonment Board, said, “The Ministry of Defence had decided to organise the ‘Run for the Nation’ marathon at all the cantonment boards across the country before the Republic Day. There are 62 cantonment boards in India and it is being organised on different dates at all the cantonment boards since January 15.”The number of persons who turned out for the event was more than what had been anticipated. The participants were reportedly recalled after the marathon started.

Surender Tiwari, vice-president, Ambala Cantonment Board, said “There was no mismanagement on the part of the Board. The participants started running without the marathon being flagged off. Hence they were recalled. Nearly 2,200 persons registered for the marathon, but the actual number was much higher.”

Meanwhile, the police today organised a mini-marathon in Ambala city. Superintendent of Police Abhishek Jorwal flagged off the marathon. He said, “The prime objective of the marathon is to develop good relation between the public and the police. Without public support, the police can’t do anything. People should come forward and help the police in eliminating crime.” Over 500 people including police officials participated in the marathon.