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Chandigarh's First International Marathon Draws 3,500+ Runners, Sets Records

The first Chandigarh International Marathon was successfully flagged off by Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria. The event featured four race categories and attracted over 3,500 participants from across the region. Record times were achieved in both the full and half marathon distances. The Governor also highlighted plans for a future cycle marathon and ongoing initiatives for a drug-free Punjab.

Key Points: 1st Chandigarh International Marathon Flagged Off by Governor

  • Inaugural international marathon in Chandigarh
  • Four race categories including full and half marathon
  • Record timings set in main events
  • Governor announces future cycle marathon for children
2 min read

Punjab Governor flags off 1st Chandigarh International Marathon, 3,500+ participate

Over 3,500 participants joined the inaugural Chandigarh International Marathon, setting new records. Governor Gulab Chand Kataria flagged off the event.

"Over 3,500 participants took part, reflecting the success of the event. - Gulab Chand Kataria"

Chandigarh, March 1

The Governor of Punjab and Administrator, UT Chandigarh, Gulab Chand Kataria, flagged off the 1st Chandigarh International Marathon on Sunday morning. The event consists of four categories--the full marathon, half marathon, 10 km run, and 5 km run.

The first Chandigarh International Marathon, organised by the Department of Sports, Chandigarh Administration, witnessed enthusiastic participation from athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and citizens from across the region.

Addressing mediapersons here, Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria said over 3,500 participants took part in the Chandigarh International Marathon across 42 km, 21 km, 10 km and 5 km categories, with record timings in the full and half marathon events. He thanked participants and the media, announced plans for a future cycle marathon to involve more children, and highlighted continued efforts to make Punjab drug-free through coordinated initiatives.

"A large number of people have come to participate in this marathon event, with 42 km, 21 km, 10 km, and 5 km runs organised today. The 42 km race was completed in a record time of 2 hours and 17 minutes, while the 21 km race finished in 1 hour and 1 minute. Over 3,500 participants took part, reflecting the success of the event," he said.

"I thank all participants and the media for their support. Plans are also underway to organise a cycle marathon to engage more children. The discussion further highlighted ongoing efforts to make Punjab drug-free, with initiatives involving the police, educational institutions, the public, and leaders," he added.

Earlier, Gulab Chand Kataria also received the official Marathon T-Shirt from the officials of the Department of Sports, Chandigarh Administration at Lok Bhavan on Saturday.

The Governor was ceremonially presented with T-Shirt No. 1, symbolising leadership and commitment to the spirit of sportsmanship. In the presence of Mandeep Singh Brar, Secretary Home, UT Chandigarh, the T-Shirt was presented by Secretary Sports, Chandigarh, Prerna Puri, and Director Sports, Saurabh Arora.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

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Priya S
Great initiative! It's wonderful to see such a large turnout. The plan for a cycle marathon for children is a brilliant idea to promote fitness from a young age. However, I hope the administration also focuses on creating more permanent running tracks and public parks in other cities of Punjab.
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Rohit P
Waah! 3500+ participants is no small number. Chandigarh proving again why it's one of the best planned cities. The link to the drug-free Punjab campaign is important. Sports truly can divert youth from negative influences. More power to such events!
S
Sarah B
As someone who participated in the 10K, it was incredibly well-organized! The energy was electric. It's heartening to see the government promoting health and community spirit. The only suggestion would be to have more water stations along the 5K route for next time.
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Vikram M
Good event, but the article focuses a lot on the Governor and the T-shirt ceremony. The real heroes are the athletes who trained for months. I wish there was more coverage of the winners, especially any local Punjab runners who made us proud.
K
Kavya N
Bahut badhiya! My brother ran the half marathon. The whole family was there to cheer. It's more than just a race; it brings the community together. Hope they keep the registration fees reasonable so more common people can join next year. 🙏

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