Bhubaneswar: The Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL) successfully hosted the much-awaited Coal India Bhubaneswar Half Marathon today, celebrating the 50 glorious years of Coal India Limited.
The historic event took place at Kalinga Stadium here with a prize money of Rs 45.34 lakh, drawing over 5600 enthusiastic participants from various walks of life, including professional marathon runners, fitness enthusiasts, young and old from all across the country.
Participants showcased the spirit of unity and determination in the race featuring various categories, including 21km, 10km, 5km and a half km fun run, making it competitive and fun for both seasoned athletes and newcomers. Lili Das from West Bengal and Prince Kumar from Uttar Pradesh stood as the overall winners of the Half Marathon in female and male categories respectively. Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida and Olympian Saina Nehwal, who was the ambassador of the event, gave away the prize money to the winners in different categories.
Among others, Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari , Minister of Sports & Youth Services Suryabanshi Suraj, Bargarh MP Pradip Purohit, Pallahara MLA Ashok Mohanty, Chhendipada MLA Agasti Behera, Angul MLA Pratap Chandra Pradhan, Talcher MLA Braja Kishore Pradhan, Chief Secretary of Odisha Manoj Ahuja, Chairman of Coal India PM Prasad, CMD of MCL Uday Anant Kaole, all functional directors and CVOs from Coal India & MCL, and senior officers from various districts of Odisha were present. The event, organised in collaboration with Department of Sports, Govt. of Odisha was a huge success. The event stands as a testament to Coal India’s legacy while promoting the importance of a healthy and active lifestyle.