Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi
With inputs from media release
Udupi, Aug 16: The 5th edition of the Manipal Marathon 2023 will be held in February 2023 with the aim of raising awareness and funds for the cause of early detection of childhood cancer.
The marathon event will be organised by MAHE in collaboration with Udupi District Amateur Athletic Association and NEB Sports Bengaluru, organisers announced this in a press conference held on Tuesday, August 16 at Manipal.
Manipal Marathon is an annually held running event in Udupi district that happens to be one of the largest marathons in the country. Its past editions have attracted professional pacers, athletes and participants across all ages and from around the globe.
The 5th edition of the Manipal Marathon aims to create awareness on Childhood Cancer with the tagline “Early Detection saves lives-I Can Cer-Vive”. Through the event, funds will be raised to support and care for people requiring financial assistance for the treatment of childhood cancer.
The event is scheduled to be held on February 12, 2023 with strict adherence to COVID protocols prevailing at the time.
It is anticipating participation of about 15,000 runners. Previously, the event had attracted runners from Ethiopia, Germany, Kenya, England, Nepal, Malaysia and Sri Lanka and the 2023 edition is also expected to attract similar participation.
Speaking about the event, Dr H S Ballal, Pro-Chancellor, Manipal Academy of Higher Education said “We are extremely pleased to be bringing back our legacy event Manipal Marathon in 2023. MAHE has always strived to inculcate the spirit of fitness and good health among its students and running is an excellent approach to achieve this. This year marathon aims to raise funds for the noble cause of fighting childhood cancer. Since its first edition, the marathon has seen amazing participation. I am sure, the coming edition will also see the people of Manipal turn up in huge numbers and run to support the cause”.
Lt Gen (Dr) M D Venkatesh, Vice-Chancellor of MAHE said “Maintenance of health and wellness has become a top priority in current times. The Manipal Marathon will raise awareness around fitness and encourage students and other participants to improve fitness and health status through regular running. The event will be conducted smoothly with strict adherence to COVID protocols and guidelines existing in February 2023”.
Sri K Raghupathi Bhat- MLA, Udupi & President- Udupi District Amateur Athletic Association conveyed his best wishes to the organisers of the event and said he is looking forward to the success of the 5th edition of the Manipal Marathon- which will be the ultimate running experience for the participants.
Arjuna awardee Reeth Abraham, Director -NEB Sports said, “We are elated to be associated with MAHE and the Udupi District Amateur Athletic Association. Over the years, this marathon has provided a great platform for professional athletes to grow and will continue to do so in the future. The organisation, standards and conduct of this event is impeccable and I am confident that Manipal
Marathon will soon be recognised as a ‘Gold Label’ marathon by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF),” she said.
Dr Venkatraya M Prabhu, Pro Vice Chancellor (Health Sciences), Manipal Academy of Higher Education said “Running improves cardiovascular health, bone density and fitness levels in general. A marathon of this scale gives the participants a sense of accomplishment. It provides an opportunity for the community to come together for a good cause while simultaneously completing a huge undertaking that requires commitment and perseverance.”
Dr Narayana Sabhahit- Registrar, Manipal Academy of Higher Education said “With every edition the Manipal Marathon has revolutionised the running culture in Manipal. The enthusiasm of the people in the region has grown by leaps and bounds with everyone wanting to be fitter and stronger. Like every year, the atmosphere of the 5th edition is going to be electrifying and carnival-like with attractive prizes, sumptuous food and goodies for participants.”
Dr Vinod C Nayak- Secretary Sports Council, Manipal Academy of Higher Education said “Manipal Marathon comes with a unique theme every year and this year too, it is no different. Spreading awareness is our prime goal, and through Manipal Marathon, we will continue to do so. Manipal Marathon 2023 will strive to create awareness on childhood cancer.”
The categories of the marathon are Untimed 3k fun run and Corporate 3k, and timed 5k, 10k, 21k and 42K.
Registrations for MM 2023 will open soon.