Bodh Gaya: Runners from across the world, including India, participated with enthusiasm in the second Bodh Gaya Marathon on Sunday. Mongolian ambassador Ganbold Dambajav not only flagged off the marathon but also joined the race himself. Around 2,500 participants, including 300 cadets from OTA Gaya, international athletes and professional runners, took part in the event.
The marathon commenced from Kalachakra ground, where the national anthem was played before the guests officially signalled the start. Among the dignitaries present were the 13th Kundling Rinpoche, Lieutenant General Sukriti Singh Dahiya, commandant of OTA Gaya, and Abhijit Haldar, director general of the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC).
Ganbold Dambajav highlighted the role of Buddhism in strengthening the 70-year diplomatic relationship between India and Mongolia. Lieutenant General Dahiya, who completed the 10km race alongside his wife, said the marathon served as both a sporting event and a medium for cultural exchange between India and Buddhist nations.
The marathon route stretched from Kalachakra ground to Dhungeshwari hill and beyond. The race, which began at 4.30am, saw runners completing their designated distances before returning to Kalachakra ground. Award-winning marathoners from South Korea also participated.
In the 42km race, female runners from Ethiopia and male runners from Kenya took first place. Winners received cash prizes, while those in the 42km category were awarded a free trip to South Korea. An Indian runner was also given a return ticket to South Korea.
The event’s brand ambassador, 1992 Asian champion Dr Sunita Godara, hailed it as a historic success. IBC director general Abhijit Haldar echoed her sentiment, emphasizing the strong support the marathon received.
