The third edition of Surya Half Marathon drew overwhelming participation on Sunday at Cobra Ground, capturing the attention of sports enthusiasts from across the country. Recognised in the national marathon calendar, the event saw nearly 10,000 runners competing in various race categories, making it one of the largest sporting events of the region. This year’s marathon was dedicated to the valiant soldiers of Operation Sindoor, honouring those who sacrificed their lives for the nation.

 

Despite the minimum temperature dropping to 8.5°C, thousands of participants including men, women, children, senior citizens arrived at the venue as early as 5 am, showcasing immense enthusiasm and patriotic spirit as patriotic songs echoed across the grounds. The event was virtually inaugurated by Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav under the aegis of the Madhya Bharat Area.

 

The chief guest was Lieutenant General Anindya Sengupta, GOC-in-C, Central Command. Other dignitaries present included Ruchira Sengupta, Regional President AWWA; Lieutenant General P S Shekhawat, GOC, Madhya Bharat Area, Rajlaxmi Shekhawat, Zonal President AWWA, Major General Sanjay Gautam, Chief of Staff, international marathon runner Dr. Sunita Godara, Mayor Jagat Bahadur Singh Annu, MP Ashish Dubey and Rajya Sabha MP Sumitra Valmik. Runners from various age groups participated in the 21 km, 10 km, 5 km, and 3 km races across the scenic green routes of Jabalpur

 

The total prize money amounted to Rs 15 lakh. In the open category of the half marathon, Krishnaram (men) and Bharti Yadav (women) secured first place, each receiving Rs 1 lakh, along with a motorcycle and an e-scooter respectively. In the 10 km race, Harshpuri Goswami (men) and Dimple Singh (women) won Rs 50,000