In Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, the “Sikkim Soldierathon 2.0” kicked off on Sunday at Paljor Stadium. The event drew more than 2,700 runners, including soldiers, civilians and children from 27 states and 130 cities.
Mizoram Governor General V.K. Singh (Retd.) flagged off the race and praised the Soldierathon for building stronger ties between armed‑force members and the public. He thanked organisers and wished all participants success. “This marathon brings soldiers and youths together,” he said, adding that it helps people especially young people appreciate the constant vigilance soldiers show, regardless of the terrain.
The marathon, organised by “Fitistan – Ek Fit Bharat” in partnership with the Indian Army’s Eastern Command and Trishakti Corps, offered three distances: 5 km, 10 km and a 21‑km hill half‑marathon. Winning teams earned cash prizes sponsored by Sikkim Raj Bhavan, and every runner received a medal and a promotional item.
Sikkim Governor Om Prakash Mathur joined his counterpart from Mizoram to hand out awards. Senior citizens and children were also recognised, while cultural performances highlighted the spirit of national unity and the coordination between military and civilian communities.
The event’s theme, “Great Himalayan Connect: Run the Ridge‑Connect the Peaks‑Unite the Spirit,” aimed to boost fitness, sports tourism, and the image of the Himalayan state. Governor Mathur called the Soldierathon an inspiring way to mobilise the state’s youth and strengthen civil‑military cooperation. He congratulated organisers, army officers, participants and all partnering organisations.
With a focus on unity, discipline and shared responsibility, the Soldierathon shows how sport can bridge gaps between soldiers and the people they protect. As the runners crossed the finish line, the cheers and colourful displays underscored a message of cooperation and national pride that resonates across India’s diverse regions.
Source: ianslive
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