BANGALORE: On Sunday, Bangalore woke up to an action packed morning as
they geared up for the annual World 10K marathon, at Sree Kanteerava
stadium. The marathon was held early in the morning but the participants
were full of zest and enthusiasm. The senior citizens were the most
energetic. The participants in this category were supposed to run for 4
kms, and this was especially for those above the age of 60. Aruna
Hemanth Kataria, 67, was a lady with a cause as she walked the whole
distance with a poster on her back, promoting organ donation. Perhaps,
the most courageous participants were those in the Wheelchair event as
they determinedly covered 4 km. “We did this because we wanted to show
that we are not useless and we also have the same energy” said P P
Kartharaju who was participating for the second time. Jacqueline Colaco,
here for the fifth year, said the event was good as usual. Colaco is a
part of The Association Of People With Disability, and also raised a
considerable sum for her charity. H T Sangliana, former Police
Commissioner, was also present. “They are so spirited and happy, and
this is an opportunity for them to come out and express themselves,” he
asserted. Chief Minister D V Sadananda Gowda and Minister for Home and
Transport, R. Ashoka, were also present for the run. The CM expressed
his hope that more and more events like this would be held in the future
as they promote good health and physical training. “These kind of
events must be encouraged and given priority. We should have this kind
of training even in our primary schools,” he commented. Puneeth Rajkumar
cheered on contestants during the Majja Run and gave away awards for
various categories. The run also included several participants who were
running to promote different causes, ranging from education for the girl
child, and awareness about child labour to stop smoking campaigns.
Esther James, from Child Fund, who there to promote childrens’ welfare
and development had one thing to say, “Every child counts.”The crowd
certainly seemed to be in a mood to celebrate as they returned after
finishing their Run, and they had none other than DJ Jasmeet to
entertain them with some popular tracks.As people were letting their
hair down, there were also some participants who were whisked away for
medical attention. “Nine people were also taken to the hospital, but
there was nothing serious”, he added. The Indian Air Force made its
presence felt as 91 of its memb
