Stage set for local athletes

For a nation shorn of world-class distance running athletes, the participation of elite internationals is vital for any event.

 While quite a few have graced the 10K runs with their presence held in the City, this Sunday’s Bengaluru Marathon will see no major athlete in participation.

“We deliberately didn’t want to invite any major international athletes,” said Reeth Abraham, one of the faces behind the Bengaluru Marathon, after unveiling the route at a press conference here on Thursday. “This being the inaugural edition, we thought of giving the local athletes a chance. 

“Our aim is to get Bangaloreans on to the streets and make them run. We want them to have fun as well as take fitness and running seriously. We’ll think about inviting international athletes later on.”

Although there won’t be any big names in contention, the event will have a starry touch with former Olympic and world champion Haile Gebrselassie flagging off the race. “Haile’s presence is huge. This has been one incredible year for Bangaloreans. First it was the legendary Carl Lewis and then Usain Bolt. I was extremely fortunate to meet both of them. Now, Haile is coming down. I don’t think it can get bigger than this.”

Reeth, an Arjuna awardee and fitness freak, said all the preparations are in place and she can’t wait for the big day. “Over the last three weeks, we’ve been doing the recce repeatedly. The routes are all laid out. We’ve been having constant discussions with the cops and they’ve really helped us a lot.

The stage is all set, just the show needs to happen.” The full marathon, set for 5.00 am start, will begin and end at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium.