Pics: Joshwa D'Souza
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (JD)
Mangaluru, Jan 5: Deputy commissioner of Dakshina Kannada Dr K G Jagadeesha on Wednesday January 4 launched the Nitte Mangaluru Marathon-2017 in a glittering ceremony held in the city.
The DC, who also launched the brochure of the marathon said that sports is important in one's life as it results in a healthy society which in turn results in building of a strong nation. "Marathon is an important event as it requires both strength and stamina unlike the short distance track events which require only strength."
Recalling his college days, the DC said that he too was an athlete and represented his college at the national level in 400 meter race. "As I am an athlete and an avid golfer, I make sure I take part in one or the other sport everyday," he said.
Veteran international decathlon athlete and one of the brand ambassadors of the Marathon Shridhar Alva said, "Mangaluru is the speed city of India as it has produced many athletes who have shone at the national and international levels. Still, much more effort is required and steps like providing incentives to the athletes should be undertaken. Out of these incentives, 15 percent should be given to the coach. This way, we can make athletes more professional.
"If we can make education compulsory, why not sports? Even today our footballers play in the mud on the ground next to Nehru Maidan, which is still in the same condition as in 1960," he pointed out.
In his presidential address, chancellor of Nitte University Dr Vinaya Hegde pointed out that among the institutions in and around the city, none except the Alva's Institutions encourages sports to the fullest. "I do not blame the authorities for this but the education system. Due to the semester system students are forced to reduce their interest in sports activities and hence we don't find many youth taking part in sports. If one has to be fit and healthy at 77, like me, you have got to take part in one or the other sport.
"Cricket is not the only sport we have. Importance must be given to every sport. Not taking part in sports can cut short one's life span. Parents must realise that sports is a part of life and encourage their children to take part in it."
Pro-chancellor of Nitte university Vishal Hegde, president of DK Athletics Association Dr Manjunath Bhandary, brand ambassador Sudhir Alva, veteran international athlete and Olympian Vandana Shanbhag were among others were present.
The Marathon organised by Nitte University will be flagged off in front of Mangala stadium on February 19. The events will have half marathon, 10 km, 5 km, 3 km and 2 km runs for the interested, from school children to veterans. Those interested can contact the DK Athletics Association office, Mangala stadium or visit www.marathon.nitte.edu.in.