The Nitte Mangaluru half
marathon, jointly organised by the Nitte Education Trust and the Dakshina Kannada Athletic Association (DKAA) was flagged off outside Mangala stadium here today.
Various categories of the event were inaugurated by KPCC President Parameshwar, Sports Minister Abhaychandra Jain, Nalin Kumar Kateel MP, District in-charge Minister Ramanath Rai, Health Minister U T Khadar and Athlete and brand ambassador of Nitte Marathon, Ashwini Nachappa.
Nearly 20,000 people belonging to all ages filled the streets of the city to take part in the event. The event was aimed at creating awareness among the youth about sports and fitness and to stress on the need to channelize their energy in right direction, the organisers said.
The event comprised both competitive and non-competitive categories.
Cash prizes were given to six toppers in the open category of half marathon and 10 Km run. Top three winners in senior category of half marathon and 10 Km run and top three winners in veteran category of 10 Km run also received prizes.
A competitive category of five Km run for college and high school boys and girls, and three Km and two Km runs for primary school boys and girls were held.
'Nama Balipuga' a 5 Km non-competitive fun run was also held.
Mayor Mahabala Maarla and Nitte Education Trust chairman Vinaya Hegde were present among others.
