Sports and fitness enthusiasts participated in the marathon held in various distance categories at Auroville near Puducherry on Sunday.
| Photo Credit: KUMAR SS

Over 3,300 runners from far and near participated in the 15th Auroville Marathon that was organised in various distance segments on Sunday.

The 42-km full marathon was the first of the runs flagged off at about 5 a.m. by G. Seetharaman, Officer on Special Duty, Auroville Foundation.

This was followed by the half marathon an hour later and a 10K run that commenced at 7 a.m.

A diverse profile of enthusiasts saw men and women, veterans and newcomers, young and old participating in the various segments. The events featured several runners from within the Auroville community as well.

A 10-member group of visually impaired participants, each helped by a guide, completed the 10K segment. A children’s run/open run was held from the Visitors’ Centre to the Certitude football ground at 8 a.m.

“The Auroville experience is something unique”, said Hari Sankar, a Chennai-based physiotherapist who is a relatively new convert to the sport and a first-timer in the Auroville event, though he has participated in several such events across India.

“During the run, we accessed parts of the foresty interiors of the sylvan township that we do not get to view as regular visitors,” said the enthusiast, who had participated in the 21K half-marathon.

Though the half marathon started an hour after the 42-km full marathon, the initial three to four kilometres was covered under delicate light, said the runner who clocked two hours and 15 minutes to complete the circuit.

Residents and visitors had lined up enroute to cheer on the runners. “Further down the trail, there were a few Aurovillian artists playing percussion and wind instruments, contributing to a magical atmosphere,” said Mr. Sankar.

According to the Auroville Marathon team, the motto of the event, ‘Run for the Joy of Running’ laid emphasis on celebrating togetherness, health and the vibrant spirit of Auroville. This year too, the marathon attracted runners from all corners, each bringing their own inspiring story, unwavering determination, and passion for the sport.