Shillong, July 7: The fourth edition of Sohra International Half Marathon, which is recognised by World Athletics and Athletics Federation of India, has been scheduled for September 27 this year.
The organisers are expecting participation of over 10,000 athletes from across the country in the event with Rs 15.5 lakh total prize money on board.
Organised by the Meghalaya State Olympic Association (MSOA) in collaboration with Directorate of Sports & Youth Affairs and Meghalaya Athletics Association, the prestigious event continues to promote the spirit of sportsmanship and fitness across the state.
Department of Sports and Youth Affairs is collaborating with local heads and Dorbar Shnongs in Sohra besides various government departments to ensure success of the event, said the department’s director DD Shira while announcing the annual event.
MSOA president John F Kharshiing urged interested athletes from Meghalaya and beyond to register for the mega event by September 10.
MSOA general secretary Finely Pariat while extending warm invitation to athletes and sports enthusiasts to participate in the landmark event mentioned that last year’s marathon saw 7,000 runners.
This year, the organisers are expecting over 10,000 participants, he said.
He termed the event an opportunity to promote Sohra as a prime tourist destination.
There is no entry fee for Sohra residents participating in the fun run.
With a total budget of Rs 2 crore, Sohra Marathon is the most affordable yet offering the highest prize money, he said.
The marathon will feature a range of competitive and inclusive categories for both men and women, including 21K Elite Open and Meghalayan (above 18 years), 10K Open races (18-59 years), and popular 5K ‘Run for Fun’.
A special prize will be awarded to athletes above 50 years who complete the 21K race, underscoring the event’s commitment to encouraging lifelong participation in athletics.
The race will begin at Laitsohpliah, 6 km ahead of Mawkdok bridge, and conclude at the scenic Mawsmai (Nohsngithiang Falls viewpoint).
To ensure smooth conduct, roads leading to Sohra from Shillong will be closed from 6 am to 10 am on the race day.
Free transportation will be provided for all athletes and event workforce between Shillong and Sohra.
The runners shall leave Shillong, at 3 am, to reach Laitsohphliah, from where the marathon is all-set to commence.
Registration is open both online and offline, with physical registration points at the MSOA office in JN Stadium, Shillong, and at Sohra Shop near the Petrol Pump at Lad Thanad.
The entry fee is set at Rs 1,000 for 21K categories, Rs 200 for all 10K categories, and Rs 50 for 5K Run for Fun.
T-shirts and bib numbers for 21K and 10K participants will be distributed on September 25 and 26, at JN Stadium. Participants of 5K Run for Fun from Shillong and adjoining areas can collect their kits on September 26 at the same venue, while those from Sohra can do so at Sohra on the same day.
