Energy and Tourism Minister K.J. George flagged off the Kodagu Monsoon Half Marathon at the KALS school campus in Gonikoppal on Sunday (September 6).

A total of 5,902 participants took part in the mega marathon, organised jointly by the Ashwini Sports Foundation (ASF), KALS, NEB Sports Entertainment and the State Tourism Department, according to a statement.

The event featured 21-km and 10-km categories, besides a special 5-km ‘Maja Run’.

Mr. George said Kodagu was known for sports and called upon the youth to make a mark at the national and international levels through sports.

He said youngsters could make a name for themselves internationally by giving greater importance to sports alongside their studies. 

Referring to a recent World Cup football face-off, Mr. George recalled that it was noteworthy that a small country such as Spain had defeated Argentina.

The Minister appreciated the enthusiastic participation of hundreds of people, including children and adults, in the marathon held at KALS School.

A.S. Ponnanna, the Chief Minister’s Political Secretary and MLA, who was also present on the occasion, said the conduct of such a sporting event in Kodagu, regarded as one of the finest sporting districts in the country, was a reflection of the sporting spirit of the people and the encouragement they extend to sports.

“Many outstanding sportspersons who have made a mark at the national and international levels have emerged from Kodagu,” he said, wishing all those who participated in Sunday’s competition a good sporting performance and success.

Sports Authority of Karnataka vice-president Arun Machaiah, institution head Ashwini Nachappa and others were present.