Hans Half Marathon A runaway hit

Hyderabad: Denizens of the city gave full marks to the Hans India Half-Marathon. It was a huge hit with the citizens of capital 'taking to their heels' to stress the importance of keeping healthy. Thousands of runners enthusiastically responded to the Hans India initiative to create awareness about heart-health among the public. It was heartening to watch people take part in the run and others cheering them heartily.

The Half Marathon (21K) & (10K) run was flagged off at 5:30 am, followed by 5K Run. The chief guest at the event, Health Minister Eatala Rajender, said, "I am happy to see so many participants coming even on a Sunday morning and promoting healthy lifestyle and fitness. The rising number of heart attacks is due to unhealthy lifestyle and junk food."

Many said they were very glad they participated in the Hans initiative. Tough it was, though, for some - yet, they were game for it. They called upon all to maintain physical fitness to stay and keep healthy. Runners of all ages - children to senior citizens - came together in an overwhelming response, with great weather to boot.

Master Natraj, choreographer enthralled the participants. Ramesh Chandra, who completed the half marathon in 1.28 hours and Jagan Mohan in 1.31 hours, were awarded the first and second place in male category. Ventaka Satish came third with a timing of 1 hour 41 minutes.

Winner - Navya 1 hour 36 minutes, Kavali Tirupatama 2 hours 3 minutes and Arpita 2 hour 11 minutes came first, second and third respectively in the female category. In all the categories, the winners took home Rs 15k, the runner up Rs 10k and those who finished third received Rs 5k.

This is the 7th half marathon that I have participated in. I am a physical education student and I AM always fond of running and fitness that's why I participate in marathons to promote fitness. My time today was 1 hour 28 minutes. So far it's my second best time in half marathons

- Ramesh Chandra (winner of 21K marathon)

I am a professional athlete. I represented India in half marathon race. My maximum time to finish a race is 1:30 minutes. I believe that everyone should run in the morning to keep them healthy. I am grateful to the organisers for holding the event amidst such fresh breeze

- V Navya (Winner of 21K marathon)