Around 55,000 children including 3,300 visually impaired and differently abled kids across the country participated in the Salwan Marathon here on Sunday.
Over 3,300 visually challenged and differently abled children, with the help of volunteers, showcased their indomitable spirit as they ran 4.5 km in the first race of the day.
Samrata Diwan, spokesperson of Salwan Marathon, expressed happiness over the rise in numbers in the visually challenged and differently abled category runs and the overwhelming response shown by volunteers to run with these students.
Students from over 1,200 schools across the country participated in the 22nd edition of the cross country run in eight different categories -- visually impaired, differently-abled (4.5 km), Under 14 Girls and Boys (4.5 km), Under 16 Girls and Boys (6 km) and Under 18 Girls and Boys (8 km) races.
A special cheering squad comprising of cartoon characters Jai and Viru of Sony YAY channel was present to encourage students in the Army Equestrian Centre, Brar Square at the Delhi Cantonment.
Participants from various states including Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh and Delhi were seen being excited by the carnival-like atmosphere and waving hands to the beats of dhol, nagaras, jazz bands and bhangra music.
"The enthusiasm, courage and excitement we witness year on year for the run reassures us in our objective to encourage competitive sports in the city of Delhi and promote fair play and respect amongst each other," Diwan said.
"Some of the winners at Salwan Marathon today are representing their institution, regions and the country at global competitions and it's immensely gratifying to see these students go that extra mile when given a chance to run and build a good pace for an improved timing."
More than 6,000 volunteers from the Athletic Federation of India, Delhi State Amateur Athletics Association and physical instructors across India were present to ensure the safety and security of each participant at the event.
--IANS
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