District Administration Sangrur in association with District Olympic Association organised a half marathon, 'Diva Run' and Fun Run which was flagged off by cabinet minister Mr. Vijay Inder Singla. Around 10,000 sportspersons across the nation and also from foreign countries participated enthusiastically in the event. The marathon was dedicated to make the residents aware of the symptoms of the cancer and motivate them to stay fit and healthy. On this occasion, DC Sangrur Ghanshyam Thori, DC Income Tax Gagan Kundra and ACP Aditya were also accompanying the minister.While addressing a huge gathering in the local War Heroes Stadium, Mr. Vijay Inder Singla said that Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh led Punjab Government has initiated mission Tandarust Punjab to tackle with the menace of drug addiction, health related issues including cancer. He added that Sangrur is on the top to implement awareness programs and the dedication of administrative officials is commendable.The Cabinet Minister said that the motive of the marathon to spread awareness against cancer is the need of the hour and the overwhelming response of participants has marked the success of the event. He added that the Punjab Government is also committed to provide better health facilities in the region as a branch of Tata Hospital Mumbai was opened in Sangrur where majority of the cancer patients are being treated free.
Meanwhile, DC Thori said that apart from sensitising people regarding cancer symptoms, the administration has also focused on women empowerment and security of girls in the district as pepper spray was distributed to the girl students of participating schools. He added that a cyclothon, bike rally and a paraglider's show was also organised to spread the message.In the 21 km half marathon event, the athletes from Kenya bagged first three positions as Elias Matu clinched the title position by completing the race in 1 hour 5 minute 35 seconds, he was followed by Isaac Kihara and third position was secured by Brimin Kipruto. The trio bagged cash prizes of Rs 1 lakh, 51 thousand and 31 thousand, respectively. In the 'Diva Run' category, Caren and Sally both from Kenya, clinched first two title positions and bagged cash prize of Rs. 51,000 and 31,000 respectively. Bharti got third position the said category and won cash prize of Rs. 21,000.ADC Rajinder Singh Batra, SDM Babandeep Singh, AC Ankur Mahindroo, PGO Latif Ahmed, SDM Vikramjit Singh Panthe, AC UT Devdarhdeep Singh, SP Harinder Singh, DSP Satpal Sharma, among other officials and representatives of Indian Oil, Ricela, SDIC, Avani, KRBL, HM Steels, IAL and AU Small Finance Bank and sportspersons of different age groups were also present on the occasion.