Over 120 men and women from Lolab valley participated in a ‘Peace Marathon’ organised by 28 Rashtriya Rifles. The first 20 finishers, ten men and ten women, were named Peace Champions and they received prizes.
The participants who stood first and second in both the categories were given a cash prize of Rs 5000 and 3000 respectively. Participants both young and old, displayed messages of peace by participating in the event with full josh and vigour.
The race was divided into two categories, 10 km for men and 4 km for women. Men and women of all age groups participated.The message conveyed by this event was, “When you want to have peace, there is a roadmap to follow. Along the way, there may be hurdles or obstacles trying to distract you from reaching that goal. However, determination, coupled with perseverance and hard work, with each participant contributing effortlessly towards the same objective will help overcome those obstacles.”
The event was chaired by Col RK Mahajan, CO 28 RR and was attended by Mr SK Mattoo, DSP Sogam and various civil dignitaries. The event was highly appreciated by all the attendees and said that such events will go a long way in helping peace prevail in the valley.
“The event has given us the freedom to express ourselves as women. Women often feel removed from participating in many things, but today I am very happy because we have participated,” said one of the female participants.