Cyclists prove their mettle in Hoshiarpur ‘ride and run’

Our Correspondent

Hoshiarpur, March 10

More than 10,000 people, including kids participated in a half marathon under the Hoshiarpur ‘ride and run’ event organised by the district administration.

Organised on the theme “Ride away from drugs” the event was held in association with the Cycling Federation of India.

Cyclists of national and international repute took part in the 122-km race in semi-hilly Kandi terrain of Hoshiarpur.

In 21-km marathon category, Bib (21149) finished first, Bib (21168) ranked second. International men category, Kenyan runner Isaac Kepkemoi ranked first, and Kenya’s Fegley stood second, whereas in International female category, Eunice Lucia ranked first and Kenyan runner Mutie stood at the second spot.

In the men’s half 10-km half marathon, Amish Chandel of Himachal Pradesh stood first, Deepak Kumar of Dasuya second and Bachitter of Dasuya ranked third.

In women’s category, Uttar Pradesh’s Renu ranked first, Gargi Sharma of Himachal stood second and Anamika of Dasuya finished at third place.

Deputy Commissioner Isha Kalia said the event was organised under the “Ride away from drugs” and the event would pave a way for inspiring youngsters to take up cycling and staying away from drugs.

The DC said 131 cyclists showed their mettle in the semi-mountaneous region.

The Punjab police presented a lively cultural programme on the occasion. The Nehru Yuva Kendra performed bhangra. The paragliders and helicopters also showered flowers on the cyclists.

SSP J Elanchezhian, Ropar Deputy Commissioner Sumit Jarangal, Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Harpreet Sudan, Additional Deputy Commissioner (Development) Amrit Singh and General Secretary of the Cycling Federation of India Onkar Singh, among others, were also present on the occasion.