Pics: Jeevan D’Costa
Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (JD)
With inputs from media release
Udupi, Sep 29: The Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) has announced the highly anticipated 6th edition of the Manipal Marathon, scheduled to take place on February 11, 2024. This year, the marathon embraces a poignant theme: Hospice Care for People Living with Life-Limiting Illnesses. Under the rallying cry ‘We are with you all the way’, this event promises to captivate participants from around the world, fostering a vibrant and festive ambiance that transcends cultural boundaries, all while championing a noble cause. Manipal Marathon anticipates welcoming approximately 15,000 runners across diverse age categories. In previous editions, runners representing countries such as Ethiopia, Germany, Kenya, England, Nepal, Malaysia, USA, and Sri Lanka have graced the event. The upcoming 2024 edition promises to attract even more international talent.
Dr. H S Ballal, pro chancellor of Manipal Academy of Higher Education, underlined the unifying power of running, stating, "The 6th Manipal Marathon in 2024 is more than just a race; it's a platform where the global community unites to support the noble cause of Hospice care. With the tagline 'We are with you all the way,' we extend a warm invitation to runners and enthusiasts worldwide to join us in this exhilarating event. Together, we can create a profound impact on the lives of those in need of palliative care, upholding their dignity and honour.”
Lt Gen Dr M D Venkatesh, vice chancellor of Manipal Academy of Higher Education, shared his excitement, "As the vice chancellor of Manipal Academy of Higher Education, I am pleased to announce that the Manipal Marathon's route offers participants a unique opportunity not only to challenge their physical limits but also to immerse themselves in the breathtaking coastal beauty of Manipal and Udupi. The scenic route, featuring the stunning Malpe Beach, adds an extra layer of excitement to this prestigious event. Whether you are a seasoned runner or a beginner, our diverse categories, including the untimed 3k fun run and the challenging 42K, ensure there is a race for everyone. We are also building a 100-bed hospice care hospital at Manipal for people suffering from chronicle and other diseases. Manipal Marathon is a community festive carnival. It has gained name and fame across the world and participants await for the Manipal Marathon across the world.”
Ragupathi Bhat, honorary advisor of the Udupi District Amateur Athletics Association, and an former member of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, expressed his wholehearted support for the Manipal Marathon, stating, "As someone who has witnessed the power of sports and community involvement, I am delighted to see the Manipal Marathon continue to grow and evolve. This event not only promotes a healthy and active lifestyle but also serves a higher purpose by raising awareness about Hospice care. This marathon was started in 2006 as Udupi marathon. Over the years en number of participants have participated in this marathon. It has also initiated marathon activities in Udupi and many Udupi natives also participate in these marathons.”
Dr. Naveen Salins, associate dean of Kasturba Medical College and Head of the Palliative and Hospice Care Centre at KH Manipal, shared insights about the new Hospice project and the theme of the Manipal Marathon, stating, "As we embark on this exciting journey with the 6th Manipal Marathon in 2024, I am deeply honoured to share our vision for the future of Hospice care. The Manipal Marathon's theme, focusing on Hospice care, aligns perfectly with our commitment to providing compassionate and dignified care to those in need. Our new Hospice project aims to transform the landscape of palliative care, ensuring that individuals facing life-limiting illnesses receive the physical, emotional, and spiritual support they deserve. We believe that the marathon's theme will not only raise awareness but also drive the necessary support for this vital cause. Together, we can make a profound difference in the lives of patients and their families, offering them comfort, solace, and hope."
Mahesh Thakur, vice president of the Karnataka State Athletic Association, extended his heartfelt congratulations to Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Kemparaj, President of Udupi District Amateur Athletics Association, conveyed his pride in being a part of the Manipal Marathon's journey,
Dr Vinod Nayak, secretary of sports council, MAHE, welcomed all the gathering, and architect Monika Jadhav offered a vote of thanks.
Registrations for the Manipal Marathon 2024 will be opening from Oct 15. Prizes worth Rs 15 lac will be awarded to the winners.
Dr Sharath Kumar Rao, pro-vice chancellor health sciences Dr Narayan Sabhahit, pro vice-chancellor technology and science Dr P Giridhar Kini, registrar C G Mutthanna, chief operating officer Sachin Karanth, deputy director directorate PR, media and social media Dr Pradeep Kumar, dean Manipal Tata medical college Jamshedpur Dr Anup Naha, director voluntary service organization Dr Avinash Shetty, medical superintendent Kasturba Hospital and Dr Padmaraj Hegde, dean Kasturba medical college were present on the occasion.