Port Blair, Feb.16: A large number of enthusiastic people from all walks of life participated in the Makemytrip- Andaman Marathon-2020, the mega sport event held in the city today. Admiral DK Joshi, (Retd.), the Lt. Governor, A&N Islands and Vice Chairman Islands Development Agency, flagged off the race from the historic National Memorial Cellular Jail in the presence of Shri Rahul Bose, the Brand Ambassador of the Marathon.

In the Half Marathon-Open Male (21 Km), Sunil Singh of Andaman Nicobar Command won the first prize by completing the race in 1:11:47 sec. while in Half Marathon-Open Female (21 Km), Shyamali Singh of West Bengal bagged the first prize by clocking 1:24:23 sec. The Andaman Marathon was organized by the ACCI in association with the Directorate of Sports & Youth Affairs.

The prize distribution ceremony was held at Netaji Stadium, in which the Lt. Governor, A&N Islands gave away the prizes to the winners. Congratulating all the participants as well as the prize winners of the Marathon 2020, the Lt. Governor complimented the organizers for the successful conduct of the event.

The Lt. Governor said he is happy to note that the theme of this year’s event has covered three flagship programmes of the Prime Minister viz. Fit India campaign, Swachh Bharath and Digital India. The Lt. Governor stated that these Islands are naturally clean and green and Swachh Bharath and Swachh Andaman campaign has further helped in maintaining the cleanliness. He appealed to the citizens of the Islands to contribute wholeheartedly towards the campaign to keep the city spick and span.

The Lt. Governor said the initiative of ACCI to award those who registered online for the event touches the ‘Digital India’ theme. The Lt. Governor disclosed that within three months time, the Chennai Andaman OFC cable will become functional and it will improve the internet connectivity in these Islands.

The Lt. Governor also lauded the contribution of Shri Rahul Bose for his contribution in the relief and rehabilitation work post tsunami in A&N Islands.

The CINCAN, Lt. General PS Rajeshwar, noted film actor and sports enthusiast, Ms. Raima Sen, celebrity guest and ace Indian cyclist Kumar Esow Alben and the Members of Andaman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) were among others who graced the occasion.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Rahul Bose narrated about his visit to the Islands for the first time after tsunami and his involvement in relief activities. He said Andaman Marathon is a ‘Fit Run’ when compared to the Marathon he participated in other States. The atmosphere, environment, greenery and the peace loving people here makes the ‘Andaman Marathon’ a memorable one, Shri Rahul said adding that he will continue to participate in the event every year.

Diksha Chauhan, T. Raja and Sushanto Baroi were felicitated through draw of lots for registering online for the event.

Welcoming the chief guest and others present on the occasion, the Chairman Organsing Committee of the event, Mohd. H Jadwet informed that altogether 1740 people participated in the Marathon this year which was only 500 when it started in the year 2011.

Proposing word of thanks, Shri Abhijit Agarwal, Member, ACCI thanked all the sponsors, Departments of the A&N Administration, participants and all the members of the ACCI for their support in the smooth conduct of the Marathon-2020.

Ace cyclists Deborah (in absentia) and Esow Alben were given Rs. 51,000/- each for their medal winning performances in the national and international level cycling events.