the goan I network
MARGAO
The annual five-kilometre walk-run, a promotional event for the upcoming Dr P S Ramani Goa Marathon, was flagged off by TCP Minister and Goa Forward chief Vijai Sardesai from Ravindra Bhavan in Margao on Sunday. Dr Ramani Marathon is an event organised annually since 2010 in Ponda by Ahilyabai Ramani Pratishan.
The walk-run witnessed participation of over 200 runners from Margao and across Goa. The promotional run, organised by Dr Ramani in association with Margao-based aerobic and fitness lounge, G’Energy, was flagged off from Ravindra Bhavan complex in Margao at 6.30 am.
The route of the run meandered across Fabindia junction, Borda Road into the city, around Ana Font, towards Raymond, down the road from ROC, around Margao Municipal Council building, Aba de Faria Road, Colva Circle and back to Ravindra Bhavan.
Addressing the early morning gathering of runners, chief guest Sardesai said, “We all need to focus on being fit. Gender equality in this new India requires us to be fit. We have to start somewhere and all of the runners gathered here today have inspired me.”
He praised the organisers of the event for promoting female runners. The annual event is organized entirely by an all-women group, G’Energy, which is inclusive
of all ages.
Speaking to the press after the event, Genevieve Coutinho of G’energy stated, “It is an honour to be associated with Dr Ramani Marathon through this promo run. This year, we have tried to do our bit to highlight the need for a fitter world and especially the cause of women’s health. If we want to prove our mettle to the world, we need to begin with a healthy mind and a
healthy body.”
The Ponda marathon will be hosted by Dr P S Ramani on November 4 this year at Bhausaheb Bandodkar Ground, Ponda. Runners can register online till November 2. The main aim of the event is to highlight the necessity of good physical and mental health, motivation and dedication with perseverance.
Dr P S Ramani is a leading expert in the field of spinal surgery and is aptly known as the father of spinal surgery in India owing to his technique of disc removal called the “Flip Ramani Technique”. At the age 80, his zeal and enthusiasm continue to inspire the younger generations. He participates in three half marathons (21km) unfailingly each year including the marathon he hosts annually
in Ponda, Goa.
