Manipal: The 8th edition of the Manipal marathon concluded at KMC Greens, Manipal, on Sunday. Organised by Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), the event attracted 20,000 plus runners, including over 100 international athletes, competing across categories for a prize pool exceeding Rs 25 lakhs.This year’s focus theme was ‘Miles for a greener tomorrow – run for a sustainable future’. Addressing the participants, Dr HS Ballal, pro-chancellor, MAHE, said, “By bringing together over 20,000 runners, we are not just promoting fitness and wellness but also reinforcing our commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement. What began as a student initiative blossomed into one of India’s largest community fitness events, attracting international participation from over 10 countries,” he said.
Over 100 international athletes representing Dubai, England, Ethiopia, Germany, Kenya, Japan, Malaysia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and the USA participated. The event concluded with a vibrant post-run carnival by fitness enthusiasts and students, featuring music and interactive fitness and Zumba sessions.Winners: 42K fastest male: 1 Sathish Kumar, 2 Sachin Poojari, 3 Desye Endalew; 42K fastest female: 1 Senait Kefelegn Lesharge, 2 Yenealem Ayano Buli, 3 Neeti Kriplani; 21K fastest male: 1 Rijwan Ali, 2 Shashwath Rajesh Poojary, 3 Nalinakshan Kizhakkedath; 21K fastest female: 1 Bhawana Negi, 2 Nandini G, 3 Rutuja Patil; 10K fastest male: 1 Shivanand Chigari, 2 Shreedhara SN, 3 Mubarak R Dantali; 10K fastest female: 1 Shahin S Dharwad, 2 Shreya Moodekallu, 3 Chaithra TP; 5K fastest male: 1 Nagaraj Divate, 2 Ranga, 3 Manjunath Belurappanavar; 5K fastest female: 1 Nagini, 2 HV Deeksha, 3 Rekha BP Basappa Piroji.
