The State government and Airtel Hyderabad Marathon organisers are expecting the participants for this year’s race to be over 10,000.
“I enjoyed taking part in the last edition with my family and hope to do so this time around too. I also expect the number of participants to double. The GHMC, health and sanitation workers and police will be on hand to help the organisers as we look to showcase the uniqueness of Hyderabad to lure investors. I appeal to all the citizens to come out in large numbers to support this event,” remarked IT Minister K.T. Rama Rao.
Addressing a press conference at the launch of the logo, t-shirt and medallion to be presented to the participants of the Hyderabad Marathon to be held on August 30, Mr. Rama Rao said the government would not be found wanting in organising any event which would only enhance the vibrancy and the reputation of the city.
Murali Nannapaneni, race director, said the primary objective of the run is not only to inculcate the habit of fitness among Hyderabadis, but also define the character of the city itself.
“The run has three major categories – the full marathon, the half marathon, 5-km run and also the ‘Baby Run’ of three km – to ensure greater participation,” he pointed out.
“The run has already evoked tremendous interest with 7,000 persons registering themselves for the event and we hope to touch the 20,000 mark over the next one month,” he said.
“We are going to improve the runner amenities from our past experiences with greater emphasis on runner safety as about 200 qualified, medical personnel will be along the designated route,” Dr. Murali said.
Venkatesh Vijayraghavan, Airtel CEO (Telandana and Andhra Pradesh States), said they take pride in being associated with Hyderabad Marathon for the fifth consecutive year.
