Dimapur, January 29 (MExN): Longshithung Ovung and Tsuchoi emerged as winners in the respective men’s and women’s category of the Quarter Marathon organised by the Ao Students' Union Dimapur (ASUD) on Monday.
Around 450 participants ran the 10.2 km stretch beginning from the Dimapur State Stadium via Tajen Ao Road, City Tower, Burma Camp Police Point, Flyover, Nyamo Lotha Road, Dhobinalla, PWD Road and finally culminating at State Stadium.
The Quarter Marathon was flagged off by Akashe Zhimomi, President, Dimapur Chamber of Commerce and Industries (DCCI). Deputy Commissioner, Dimapur, Sushil Kumar Patel was among those present at the inaugural.
Longshithung was awarded Rs. 20,000 sponsored by Hill Theatre and Chuka. Second prized winner Shiangjiu J was awarded Rs.10,000 sponsored by Jammonger Ao, ADS,Food & Civil Supplies. Asakho Joseph was third and claimed Rs.5000 sponsored by Cold Mountain.
Tsuchoi was also awarded Rs. 20,000 sponsored by Naga Hardware and KD Enterprise. Songmo and Shoniu claimed second and third and were awarded Rs. 10,000 (sponsored by Aeinla Pongen, Emirates Airlines) and Rs. 5000 (Cold Mountain) respectively. 5 consolation prizes of Rs.1000 each for both men and women were claimed by Benjamin, Jacob, Nungsang, Longshithung, Peter, Niansai, Peiheiteile Esalung, Tsumian, Imodangla, Imtinaro R Aier.
In addition, cash prizes of Rs.500 each were given to the youngest runners – Wadangchet Nokdir and Moasola Pongen. The eldest runners – Along Nokdir and Sentitula – were also awarded cash prizes of Rs.500 each. Interestingly, the youngest and eldest runner in the male category happened to be father and son.
Tecno mobile Executive Subroto Debnath also handed over gift hampers to all the winners and to the first four runners to register.
The culmination ceremony began with the release of fifty balloons by the Chief Patron Imlimeren Jamir, Director, Rural Development.
In his speech, Jamir lauded the ASUD for organising the marathon and also congratulated the Union on successfully launching the golden jubilee celebrations. He further impressed upon the gathering to work together in harmony and hoped that such events would be organised even in future through combined efforts so as to build stronger ties among various communities.
Free drinking water for the participants were provided by Dew Drop.
