Residents of Mangalore on Sunday morning witnessed a large number of people running past their houses with all the fanfare for a cause.
The spectators and participants, young and old, converged on the Mahaveera Circle here on Sunday for a “Green run”, organised by the Yenepoya School.
Over 150 participants covered four kilometres on the occasion. “If people say it is Sunday morning and make excuses, we will not be able to make a difference. I kept the cause in my mind and it gave me the inspiration to cross the finish line,” said Shaila S. Crasta, a teacher in the school.
Motto
Organisers chose the motto “Live green, love green and think green”.
The event was organised to sensitise people on environmental concerns, including water wastage and air pollution.
The rally witnessed enthusiastic participation of children as young as 10. Karthik Rao, a class V student from Yenepoya School, said: “The experience was great. I found it really easy.”
Krishnappa Bonden (72) from Kavoor, finished the race as well and was cheered by the crowd. Participants of the race had been divided into three age groups: 15 to 25 years, 25 to 35 and above 35.
The run was flagged off by Gopal Hosur, Inspector-General of Police (Western Range). U.T. Khader, MLA, addressed the gathering at the prize distribution function. He asked the children to plant more trees. “Water a tree for three years and it will give you fruits for hundreds of years,” he said.