RAWALPINDI: Hundreds participated in the Rawalpindi Marathon on Sunday, which began at the Sports Complex in Liaquat Bagh and culminated at Iqbal Park, commonly known as Nawaz Sharif Park, near Double Road.

The marathon was organised by the district sports department in collaboration with the district administration. It was inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner retired Capt Anwarul Haq.

Akhtar Ali from Sahiwal won in the open category. Mr Ali is a cart vendor and works in Raja Bazaar.

The athletes who won the first 10 positions received a cash prize of Rs5,000 each.

Speaking at the closing session and the prize distribution, Mr Haq said the government is committed to promoting healthy activities.

“Such programmes play an important role in highlighting the talents of the young generation and instilling in them a sense of leadership and self-confidence, and their mental and physical development,” he said.

He said people have been confined to their homes due to Covid-19, and such activities were healthy. He added: “The virus has not disappeared yet and there is a dire need to adopt safety measures.

He urged marathon participants to take precautions as directed by the government and said young people and senior citizens should keep time to exercise and stay healthy while maintaining a social distance.

Published in Dawn, October 12th, 2020