Tura, 11th Oct: A Press briefing was held at the DRDA Hall in the DC Office premises to announce the launch of a cyclothon to be held on the 17th Oct. The race is to start from the Law College Ground and will culminate in the Ampati Playground covering a distance of about 43 kms along the way. The race which is to begin at 7 am in the morning on the 17th of Oct is being held to not only promote healthy habits but also a consciousness to build about a greener environment.
The event is being held by the joint district administrations of West and South West Garo Hills, along with Northern United Club and William Initiative. Speaking on the event, the DC of WGH, Pravin Bakshi said, “In a first of sorts for not only the state, but also the region, a cycle marathon or cyclothon is being held in Tura. The event will be under the Chief Minister’s flagship program, Youth for Green, which has been the CMs endeavour for a very long time. Through the initiative, we wish to promote the use of cycles as an alternative to using oil fuelled cars. Meghalaya has always been a green state and we want the message to be sent to all that the people of the region will do everything to ensure things remain the same if not better”.
The group addressed the people gathered about the itinerary stating the all things had been thought off to ensure the event was a success. There would be 9 rehydrating points along the whole stretch. Buses and ambulances would also be around in the case of any emergencies. The participants would also have the option of resting in various places along the way if required. Bakshi said that ample security would be deployed to ensure the event went off without a hitch.
Daryl W Momin, the President of the William Initiative said that the event focussed on going back to basics and ensuring the people enjoyed the marathon. He along with the General Secretary of the Northern United Club, Q Chongkim B Sangma, said the event would be a once in a lifetime opportunity for the people to come together and appeal for peace within the region. It would also help bridge the gap between communities of the region. The winner of the event would be richer by Rs 50,000, the runner up would get Rs 20,000 while the third place would take home Rs 10,000.
The event would culminate with a musical extravaganza and a slow food festival that would showcase the benefits of local cuisine and promote slow eating to ensure people had enough time to get away from the rush of normal life and enjoy more family time. Assamese, Bengali, Nepali as well as Garo cuisine along with other traditional foods, would be on display as well as for savouring. The event is expected to be attended by the CM, Dr Mukul Sangma along with a host of other dignitaries.(SP News)
