Goa, 13th October: The highly anticipated RG Marathon 5.0, powered by RG Hospitals, took place on Sunday, 13th October, at Goa, bringing together a massive crowd of 10,000 participants from various corners of the country and beyond. The event was a grand success, showcasing not only the spirit of health and fitness but also the incredible support of the government of Goa, Union Bank, and other prominent sponsors. The presence of Milind Soman, India’s fitness icon and chief guest for the event, further elevated the energy and excitement, motivating runners to push their boundaries and prioritize their health.
An Inclusive Event with a Thrilling Lineup of Race Categories
This year’s marathon featured three race categories to cater to runners of all skill levels—5K, 10K, and 21K. From seasoned marathoners to first-time participants, everyone had an opportunity to be part of this exciting fitness journey. The races were not just about crossing the finish line; they were about embracing a healthy lifestyle, and many ran for the sheer joy of testing their limits.
The competition was fierce, with participants vying for prestigious titles and cash prizes in each category. The prize pool was highly attractive, with rewards for the top three finishers in each race as follows:
5K Run: ₹10,000, ₹7,500, and ₹5,000
10K Run: ₹25,000, ₹15,000, and ₹10,000
21K Run: ₹51,000, ₹31,000, and ₹21,000
Additionally, special prizes were awarded to the fastest female runner, the fastest senior citizen runner, the fastest international runner, and champions with special abilities. All participants who completed the races were also presented with finisher medals and certificates.
Highlighting the Winners Across All Categories
The competition saw an impressive display of talent and endurance. In the 21K race, Akshay Kumar emerged victorious, followed closely by Pravin Baban Kamble in second place and Vishal Vishnu Kambire in third. Their remarkable performances were met with resounding applause from the crowd.
The 10K race saw Pradhu Vilas Kirulkar taking the top spot, with Shubham Sindhu finishing second and Yuvraj securing third. The 5K race was equally thrilling, with Sachin Yadav taking first place, followed by Rahul Sanjeev Jha in second, and Swaraj Sandip Joshi finishing third.
In the women’s categories, Ankitaben Gavit claimed victory in the 21K race, Bharti triumphed in the 10K, and Rashika Atul Marale was crowned the champion of the 5K race. Their performances demonstrated immense strength, determination, and resilience, highlighting the increasing participation of women in such endurance events.
International Runners Add a Global Flair
The marathon also drew participation from international runners, adding a global touch to the event. In the 21K category, Nickson Koech from Kenya dominated the race, while Cosmas Kipkorir Biwott took first place in the 10K, and Victor Kurgat claimed victory in the 5K. Their presence and exceptional performances brought an international spotlight to the marathon, reinforcing the event’s growing reputation beyond India.
Chief Guest Milind Soman Inspires the Crowd
Milind Soman, a well-known advocate of fitness and health, was the chief guest at RG Marathon 5.0. His presence was a major highlight, and his words of encouragement resonated with runners, spectators, and fitness enthusiasts alike. Addressing the gathering, Soman emphasized the importance of regular physical activity, urging everyone to make health and wellness a priority in their daily lives.
“Running is not just about fitness; it’s about finding your inner strength and pushing your limits. Events like the RG Marathon inspire people to start their fitness journey and stay committed to a healthy lifestyle,” said Soman, who also congratulated all participants for their effort and dedication.
Honoring the Champions on the Dias
The winners were honored by an esteemed panel of medical experts from RG Hospitals, including Dr. Sheetal Lengade, Chief Nephrologist at RG Hospitals, Goa, Dr. Sarang Kanekar, Consultant in Urology, and Dr. Hemant Parsekar, Consultant in Anesthesia. The dignitaries applauded the winners for their outstanding achievements and acknowledged the importance of events like the RG Marathon in promoting public health and community spirit.
A Community Effort Supported by Government and Sponsors
The success of RG Marathon 5.0 was made possible by the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders. The event received strong support from the Government of Goa, who played an instrumental role in ensuring smooth operations and safety protocols. Additionally, Union Bank and several other sponsors contributed to making the event a grand success, offering logistical and financial backing.
The marathon reflected RG Hospitals’ commitment to promoting health and fitness, not just through medical care but also by encouraging community participation in wellness initiatives. RG Hospitals, known for its excellence in healthcare services, took pride in hosting this event for the fifth consecutive year, reinforcing its dedication to public health.
A Celebration of Health, Fitness, and Perseverance
As the sun set on another successful edition of the RG Marathon, the sense of achievement was palpable in the air. For some, it was the thrill of crossing the finish line for the first time; for others, it was about bettering their previous records. But for all participants, it was a day to celebrate health, fitness, and perseverance.
The overwhelming turnout of 10,000 runners reflected the growing enthusiasm for running as a sport and fitness activity across India. With each passing year, the RG Marathon continues to grow, attracting not just seasoned runners but also individuals who are taking their first steps toward a healthier life.
The event concluded with a promise of an even bigger and better marathon next year, with RG Hospitals reaffirming their commitment to promoting health and fitness. The RG Marathon 5.0 will be remembered not only for the impressive athletic performances but also for its message of embracing a lifestyle that prioritizes well-being
