Puri: Over 1,000 runners, including five foreigners, took part in the 5th edition of the Puri Beach Marathon on Sunday, surpassing the average of around 500 participants in the previous editions.
The event, organised by the Bhubaneswar Cycling and Adventure Club (BCAC), saw over 200 women runners participate, highlighting growing inclusivity and enthusiasm.
BCAC president and IPS officer Sanjeeb Panda said, “Running on sea sand is extremely challenging, which makes such beach marathons rare in India. Despite the difficulty, thousands of runners are embracing the challenge.”
He added that the event plays a key role in promoting Puri beach and Odisha at national and international levels.
Runners assembled well ahead of the start time and took part in warm-up sessions, including zumba.
Two race categories were on offer — a 21-km half marathon and 7-km fun run. The half marathon route started from Shamuka beach to Bali Harachandi beach and back. The fun run covered 3.5-km one way before runners took a U-turn to return to the starting point.
Amid cheers from the crowd and music from bands, participants completed their chosen courses, some even running barefoot. BCAC ensured adequate arrangements, with water and aid stations placed every 0.5 km, supported by volunteers along the route.
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