Pune: Around 20,000 participants from Pune and surrounding areas flocked the streets of Balewadi on Sunday morning, as the Bajaj Allianz Sakal Half Marathon 2019 returned with its second edition. 

The Marathon that was flagged off at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Sports Complex, Mahalunge, saw a massive turnout of Puneites, including celebrities, politicians, senior citizens, specially-abled and students, for 21 km, 10 km, 5 km and 3 km race. 

Huge turnout of participants and supporters 
Several students of Aditya English Medium School, Chaitanya Techno School, MIT College, Suryadatta Group of Institutions were present at the venue to welcome and encourage participants as they made their way to the finish line. Members of many clubs in the city like Inner Wheel Women's Club, Niramay Hasya Club, Vasundhara Abhiyan, Balewadi Traders Association, etc. joined the groups of participants and supporters. Just like last year, police officials enthusiastically took part in the Half Marathon as runners. 

Runners, did not just come from Pune, but also from other cities and villages of Kolhapur, Nashik, Parbhani, Dhule, Satara and Latur. 

At 5:30 am, MP Girish Bapat flagged off the 21 km (Half Marathon), amidst songs and performances by Dhol Tasha Pathaks. Throughout the way, water stations and medical camps had been set up by the organisers to aid the runners. 

Medical aid available 
Health Science, Symbiosis International University students were available at the Balewadi Stadium to cater to the Marathoners. Speaking about the Marathon, Dean Dr Rajiv Yerawadekar said, "Events like Marathons enrich our students with new experiences and knowledge. They connect the students to the society."