By IANS
New Delhi : Former Indian hockey skipper Dhanraj Pillay Saturday urged Delhiites to come out in strength to participate in the Hutch Delhi Half Marathon on Oct 28, saying it would help mark Delhi as a sporting city ahead of the 2010 Commonwealth Games.
Speaking at a symposium organised by Jindal Steel, associate sponsor of the annual event, the hockey legend said: “The Delhi Half Marathon is a unique opportunity to convey the critical need of adopting a better and healthier routine, particularly in today’s rushed lifestyle.
“I want every parent and child to participate in the Delhi Half Marathon so that the world comes to know Delhi as a sporting city, particularly in view of the Commonwealth Games 2010,” said the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna recipient.
“Also, marathon has become financially a very lucrative sport now.”
With $160,000 in prize money, the Delhi Half Marathon organisers claim that it is now the world’s richest marathon.
Pillay also called upon people in general to maintain a regular fitness routine.
“I am 39 now and have never been near a doctor’s clinic. Give yourself 45 minutes to one hour every day to keep yourself fit,” the veteran of four Olympics said.
Former Asian champion marathoner Sunita Godara, who will be training the Jindal Steel team for the marathon, added: “The best part of a marathon is that every finisher is a winner.”
Noted social worker Nafisa Ali said the marathon would provide a unique platform to people to come together for a greater cause.
“A sporting event like a marathon not only acts as a unique platform to come together for a greater cause, but also unites people from various walks of life to celebrate life.”
Ali, who runs an AIDS care centre in the city, said: “For me, the core issue behind this marathon is helping raise funds for socially relevant causes.”
This year’s marathon has four categories – the main half marathon of 21.097 km for people 18 years and above; a Great Delhi Run of seven km for those who are 12 years and above; a Senior Citizens’ Run of 4.3 km for those who are 60 and above; and a Wheelchair Event for the physically challenged who are 12 years and above.