Thane to host 'Young India' state-level marathon at Hiranandani Meadows Circle on Nov 1

The 'Young India' state-level marathon will be held in Thane on Sunday, November 1. It is being organised by Athleads with the support of Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. The race will start at Hiranandani Meadows Circle, and runners of different ages can take part. Cash prizes totalling about Rs 10 lakh have been set aside for the winners.

The races will be held in several categories. There will be a 21-km half marathon for men and women, and a 10-km race for men and women. Boys and girls under 19 will run 10 km, those under 15 will run 5 km, and those under 12 will run 3 km. A 3-km run has also been kept for men and women above 50.

The main attraction is a 1-km 'Family Run', the first of its kind in Thane district. Children under 10 can run with their parents, so the whole family can enjoy the run together.

Senior coach Datta Chavan, a Shivchhatrapati Award recipient, said the race would give the state's runners, who are preparing for bigger marathons ahead, a chance to test their ability. The top ten winners in every category will receive cash prizes, commemorative medals and certificates of appreciation. Winners of the 21-km race, in both the men's and women's categories, will get Rs 1 lakh each.

The organisers said the 21-km race has been added to the competition from this year on the suggestion of Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Shiv Sena deputy leader Anita Birje said every runner who takes part will get a T-shirt, a participation certificate and a medal.

There are prizes for schools as well. The three schools that send the most children will receive attractive awards. Entries will be accepted until Friday, October 30. Department head Amit Jaiswal has appealed to those seeking more information to contact Swapnil Chavan.