Manipal: Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Udupi District Amateur Athletic Association and Academy of General Education (AGE) in association with Adani and Syndicate Bank will organize the 2nd Manipal Marathon on February 11, 2018. “Last year the response was good and this year we expect it to be better,” said Pro Chancellor, MAHE, Dr H. S. Ballal while addressing media persons at the University Board room here on Wednesday.

The year 2018 is special for MAHE, celebrating its Silver Jubilee, and AGE commemorating its Platinum Jubilee. The marathon therefore, will be Manipal Silver Marathon,” said Vice Chancellor, Dr H.Vinod Bhat. He also mentioned that the theme for the run is “Drug free is the way to be”.

Last year, a few national and international runners took part the marathon and this year many more have expressed their willingness to participate. That apart, thousands of others from all walks of life will take part in the event which is being co-sponsored by Vodafone, Lining and Sunpharma.

Giving details about the race itself, Dr Vinod Nayak, Secretary MAHE Sports Council said; “The marathon carries a prize money of 7. 8 lakh rupees. The first placed runner, both in the men and women’s sections will take home Rs 75,000. The second prize will be Rs 35,000 and the third Rs 20,000.” He added; “There will be five races: 21.1 Km timed run (Men and Women). 10 Km timed run (Men and Women). 5 Km timed run (Men and Women). 5 Km fun run and 3 Km fun run. The runs will be flagged off between 6am and 7.30am from the manipal.edu building”.

About the registration, Dr Anitha Guru, Joint Secretary MAHE Sports Council said; “All participants will have to register for the run. Upon registration they will receive a goodie bag with information leaflet, bib and T shirt. There will be an expo on February 9 and 10, 2018 from 10 am to 6.30 pm at the KMC Food Court and KMC Greens where the kit will be distributed.

MAHE’s Volunteer Services Organization (VSO) will play an important role in the smooth conduct of the marathon. The volunteers will be present along the routes at the water stations and will also help in controlling traffic. Dr Anup Naha, Convenor of VSO said that in addition to ensuring smooth conduct of the races, the volunteers would also organize some games at KMC Greens and put up stalls to educate people about the consequences of drug abuse. Games like dodge ball and slow cycling, a kids zone and other activities will be organized.

Also present at the media briefing were, MAHE Pro Vice Chancellor, Dr Poornima Baliga, Registrar, Dr Narayan Sabhahit, former MLA, Mr Raghupathi Bhat and UDAAA President Mr Ashok Adyanthaya.