Nearly 4,000 runners of all ages turn up for first-ever half-marathon in Juhu early on Sunday morning
Despite being a Sunday morning, thousands were at the starting line shortly after 6 am. Pics/Shadab khan
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Juhu's first ever half-marathon drew all kinds of people - young, old, first-timers and seasoned runners. Despite it being a Sunday morning, nearly 4,000 residents were waiting at the starting line as early as 6 am, raring to go.
"I woke early just for the half-marathon. This is the first time I have participated and successfully finished one. This encourages me to participate in more such events," said Harsh Mandaviya (21), a resident of Kandivli.
Jeetendra and Kunal Kapoor were some of the celebrities at the run
Some, like 60-year-old Kiran Pal Singh Dodhi have been running for years. "I usually run for my health, as it keeps away illnesses. I have completed eight full marathons before, and completing this half marathon is another achievement for me," he said.
Warming up to marathons
"Marathons are the need of the hour. Nothing like this had been organised here before, and the response we are seeing today is huge," said Vijay Ambati, president of the Rotary Club of Bombay Airport, which organised the event in association with the Get Fit Through Sports Foundation.
Darshan Mandva suffers from cerebral palsy, but he didn't let that stop him from finishing the 5-km race
The organisers also encouraged runners to participate in a warm-up session at the Jamnabai Narsee ground before taking to the streets. Many participants were seen engaging in basic exercises and Zumba before the marathon commenced.
The marathon was divided into three runs, which were flagged off by actor Kunal Kapoor every 30 minutes. "It's great to see so many turn up this early. It shows that Mumbaikars are concerned about their health," said Kapoor, before flagging off the first race.
It was the ninth marathon event for Kiran Pal Singh Dodhi (60)
First-timers
Taking part in the shorter 5-km run was Darshan Mandva (25), who suffers from cerebral palsy. Although he finished the race late, he didn't let his condition stop him from finishing the entire run. "It was a great experience covering the 5 kilometre track. I feel very positive right now," he said, as he crossed the finish line.
Frenchman Jeremy Seiz ran his first half-marathon at Juhu yesterday
For Frenchman Jeremy Seiz (25) too, it was his first time running a half-marathon in India. "I found this online and decided to participate. India is picking up on sports and marathons, and this one was well organised. The humidity here is tough though."
"Awareness for fitness is increasing and it's a good sign. Running is very important for our health. I have myself gone from a being non-runner to a known runner and I can guarantee that running every day is very refreshing," said Bharat Kapadia, an organiser.
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