Indian Open Marathon on Sep 17 with 1 lakh prize money and incenti

New Delhi, Sep 11 (UNI) Three-dimensional trophy designed by an eminent sculptor, Rs one lakh prize money for both male and female runners and an additional incentive of one lakh for breaking the national record are the carrots which will be dangled before the runners in the Mawana Indian Open Marathon scheduled here on September 17.

Chairman of the Mawana Sugars Limited Siddharth Shriram announced today that there won't be any disparity in the prize money for the male and female winners. Asked if there would be any incentive for bettering the existing national record, Mr Shriram made an impromptu announcement that he would double the prize money in that case.

''I don't think you have too many tournaments where men and women have the same prize money,'' he said.

Secretary of the organising committee Rajesh Tara informed that the marathon had been accorded a national status by the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) and the points earned by the runner here would be considered for next month's National Open Athletics Championships.

''AFI would manage the technical part of the run and Army will provide the medical cover for the entire race. Besides, AFI will also manage the eight booths along the route,'' Mr Tara added.

''Flying Sikh'' Milkha Singh would flag off the run from Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium and Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit would give away the prizes, Mr Shriram said.

Meanwhile, MS Upadhyaya, ACP, Delhi Police (Traffic) informed that it would be a trial run to assess whether the same route could be used for the marathon event of the 2010 Commonwealth Games.

''It being Sunday, we hope there won't be much problem for the people in the city and the event would be over by 1100 hrs. There will be minimum inconvenience and it would also give us a fair idea about what it takes to manage a marathon in the city. Of course, we are going to use at least some of the stretches in 2010 Games,'' he explained.

Mr Shriram unveiled a replica of the trophy designed by sculptor Amar Nath Sehgal and asserted that his group was keen to take track and field events down to the villages to unearth hidden talents.

''In keeping with our committment to give a sweeter life for all, we would be promoting sports as a wholesome activity,'' he added.

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