Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)
Udupi, Jul 4: On the occasion of the 119th foundation day of Canara Bank, the third edition of the Canara Marathon Freedom Run and a blood donation camp were launched at the Canara Institute of Banking Management in Manipal on July 1.
Dr Girish R Menon, a surgeon and the head of the neurology department at KMC Manipal, said, “In 2014, when I returned to Manipal, I connected with a group of athletes here. We started as a small group, eventually affiliating with the University and later with Syndicate Bank. I hope that the Canara Marathon will reach the level of the Manipal Marathon, and next year we might even have a full marathon. Manipal is becoming the runner's hub of the country.”
Dr Deepak Ram Bairy, deputy director of physical education at MAHE Manipal, added, “We are closely associated with sports events and have organized cricket matches at the Endpoint Ground. Canara Bank can count on our support, and I assure that MAHE will provide all necessary assistance.”
Jayaprakash C, general manager of the Circle Office in Manipal, expressed his satisfaction with the program, saying, “The organizers have worked hard for the past four days. I admire their dedication and hope that the third edition will be a great success. Maintaining a healthy and peaceful mind is crucial for our banking and other work, and it comes only from a healthy body. Let us make this event a success.”
Reflecting on the 119th Founder’s Day, Jayaprakash noted, “Canara Bank was founded on July 1, 1906. To mark this 119th Founder’s Day, we organized a blood donation camp and launched the third edition of the Canara Marathon Freedom Run. I encourage everyone to participate and make the event successful.”
Shreenath Joshi, general manager of CIBM Manipal, urged everyone to join the marathon, stating, “Keeping ourselves fit is essential for both physical and mental health.”
R Krishna Prasad, general manager of GTPC Manipal, assured, “The management department will provide all necessary support, including financial backing. In the previous edition, entry fees limited participation, but this year, the department will cover the expenses.”
Mini, deputy general manager of GTPC Manipal, expressed her joy in being part of all three editions of the Canara Marathon, noting that this third edition would be her last.
The Canara Marathon was formally launched by releasing balloons into the sky.
Sachin Shetty provided a brief overview of the Canara Marathon.
The event was led by Sachin Shetty, Suraj Uppoor, Vishal Singh, Durgaprasad, Riyas, Narasimha Murthy, and Nilesh Gaikwad.
Shivani Mundiya served as the master of ceremonies.
The Canara Marathon will take place on August 15. All enthusiastic runners are encouraged to participate.