3,000 RUNNERS REACH THE FINISH POINT AFTER TRAVERSING THE ARAVALLI HILLS

Raj Sadosh/Abohar.

As the clock struck 6:00 a.m., runners set off with tremendous energy, enthusiasm and determination to traverse the picturesque Aravalli hills. Around 3,500 runners reached the starting point at Manmohini Van, of whom nearly 3,000 completed the 21.9-km race and reached the finish point at Pandav Bhawan, Mount Abu.

The occasion was the 8th Dadi Prakashmani Abu Half Marathon, organised by the Brahma Kumaris. Participants ranging from 18-year-old students to senior citizens aged up to 70 years, including married couples, took part in the race, many of them carrying d the Tricolour and the Shiv Baba flag in their hands as they ran.

The chief guest, Olympic marathon runner Kheta Ram, encouraged all saying that along with physical strength, mental strength also plays a major role in running. Tehsildar Rana Ram Rana was happy at seeing such a large number of runners participating in the marathon.

General Secretary of the Brahma Kumaris, BK Karuna, encouraged the runners to participate with enthusiasm and keep their minds strong. Additional General Secretary Dr. BK Mrityunjaya said that the marathon was organised to convey the message of universal brotherhood. BK Usha Didi encouraged the runners to participate with the determination that success is our birth right and that, “I have to succeed.” Secretary of the Medical Wing, BK Banarsi, administered a pledge to all the runners to remain free from addictions throughout their lives and to create awareness among others about staying away from addictions.

Marathon Coordinator BK Sachin said that all runners who reached the finish point within four hours were presented with medals and certificates of appreciation. Refreshment points were arranged at every kilometre along the route. A trekking point was also set up at Saat Ghoom. The organisers continuously monitored the participants throughout the event.