Hans Half Marathon a big draw in Hyderabad

Hyderabad: Denizens of the city gave full marks to The Hans India Half Marathon and made it a huge hit while laying stress on the importance of keeping healthy.

Thousands enthusiastically responded to The Hans India drive to create awareness on cardiovascular health among the public. It was heartening to watch people take part in the run and others cheering them on.

The Half Marathon (21K) & (10K) run was flagged off at 5:00 am followed by 5K run. The chief guest for 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 from children to senior citizens came together in an overwhelming response, with great weather to boot. 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.

Venkata Satish came third with a timing of 1 hour 41 minutes. In the female category Navya completed the marathon in 1 hour 36 minutes, Kavali Tirupatamma in 2 hours 3 minutes and Arpita in 2 hour 11 minutes came first, second and third respectively in the female category.