Thousands of runners from all over the country participated in the first-ever Coal India Guwahati Half Marathon at Sarusajai Stadium in Guwahati. This event showcased the determination and enthusiasm of the people of Assam. The marathon was organized by the Eastern Command of the Indian Army in coordination with the government of Assam and Coal India Ltd.
The aim of the event was to unite people from different cultures and cities and put Guwahati on the marathon map of India. Over a thousand participants took part in the 21 km, 10 km, and 5 km categories in various age groups. The Sarusajai Stadium was decorated with colorful themes and had cheering zones, dance troupes, and bands along the route to keep the runners motivated.
The event also saw the participation of differently abled individuals in the 5 km run, highlighting their determination. More than 800 women and girls also took part in the event, showcasing their strength. In total, over 5,000 runners participated.
Nazeem Pulikkal was declared the winner in the male category with a timing of 1 hour 10 minutes and 9 seconds, while Phurba Tamang won in the female category with a timing of 1 hour 35 minutes. The event was attended by several dignitaries including Nandita Garlosa, Sports and Youth Welfare Minister of Assam, Lt Gen RP Kalita, GOC-in-C, Eastern Command, and Lt Gen Manish Erry, GOC 4 Corps.
The Sports Minister congratulated the participants and organizers for their efforts and thanked the Indian Army for organizing such a significant event in Guwahati. She also appreciated the progress made towards civil-military integration in Assam.
