Faridabad Half Marathon draws massive crowd for health awareness

Faridabad: Accord Hospital and Faridabad Triathlon Club (FTC) jointly organised Faridabad Half Marathon on Sunday, promoting health and fitness awareness. Over 2,000 participants took part in this Marathon. The marathon was flagged off by the chief guest Padma Shri Chewang Motup Goba, Director of Ladakh Marathon, alongside Amrish Kumar Adhana, coach of Tokyo Olympic gold medalist Neeraj Chopra, NHPC Chairman R.K. Chaudhary, former Indian cricketer Vijay Yadav, and Accord Hospital Chairman Dr. Rishi Gupta. The race began from the hospital campus, with participants from Delhi-NCR and various states joining the event. Enthusiastic participation was seen from all age groups, including a significant number of senior citizens and women. Special security arrangements were in place, with several routes closed to ensure the safety of the runners. In the 21 km race, Sachin Chin Khattar secured the first position in the men’s category, while Aarti Saxena claimed the top spot in the women’s category.

Winners were honored by Haryana’s Food and Supply Minister Rajesh Nagar. The half marathon commenced at 5 AM from the Accord Hospital campus, traversed through Omaxe World Street Chowk, Chandila Chowk, and Neemka Village Chowk before concluding back at the hospital. Traffic police had issued directives to control vehicular movement from 5 AM to 8 AM. The event’s core aim was to spread awareness about healthy living and fitness, with Padma Shri Chewang Motup Goba and Amrish Kumar Adhana applauding the successful organization. They emphasized the importance of such events, not only to showcase talent but also to inspire health consciousness.

Dr. Yuvraj Kumar, chairman of the orthopedic department, highlighted that the marathon’s theme, “Choose Fitness Over Illness,” encouraged a broad spectrum of participants, including youth, women, senior citizens, and even patients battling severe health conditions like kidney disease, liver ailments, paralysis, and cancer. Their participation showcased that illness can never dampen the spirit of determination. The marathon was divided into multiple categories, allowing participants to complete the race based on their capabilities. The enthusiastic and energetic event inspired hundreds to adopt regular exercise and fitness as part of their daily routine. FTC Convener Harish Kumar Sharma shared that senior citizens aged 71 and 84 participated enthusiastically, setting an example of vitality and resilience. Dr. Yuvraj Kumar mentioned that 10-15 knee replacement patients, kidney patients, and even cancer survivors joined the run, proving that health challenges cannot hold back a determined soul. NHPC Chairman R.K. Chaudhary praised Accord Hospital’s crucial role in promoting fitness, encouraging them to continue organizing such impactful events.

After this successful event, hospital chairman Dr. Rishi Gupta, Dr. Prabal Roy, Dr. Jitendra Kumar, chairman of Orthopedic and Joint Replacement Department Dr. Yuvraj Kumar, Dr. Rohit Gupta, Dr. Ram Chand Soni assured that more such health awareness programs would be organized in the future to inspire people towards a fit and active lifestyle.

During the marathon, FCCI President & MD of Perfect Bake, H.K. Batra, FCCI General Secretary Rohit Rungta, and office bearers of the Media Associate City Press Club-Faridabad were present along with other dignitaries.

Present on this occasion, FCCI President & MD of Perfect Bake, H.K. Batra, stated, “The Faridabad Half Marathon beautifully promotes health, fitness, and community spirit. We are proud to support such inspiring initiatives.” FCCI General Secretary Rohit Rungta added, “This event highlights the power of determination and the importance of embracing a healthier lifestyle.”

The Faridabad Half Marathon was not merely a race but a celebration of health, unity, and the unyielding human spirit. Initiatives like these are paving the way for a healthier and more vibrant society.