PUNE: The Bajaj Allianz Pune Half Marathon organised on Sunday was an important event which will create awareness about health in citizens, said sponsorers and corporate leaders.
"Marathon is a great initiative for health and Puneites have given a good response to it. It was overwhelming to see the enthusiasm among competitors. It plays an important role in creating and the understanding of health. Organised by Sakal, it was a very good initiative," said Sushil Jadhav, Zonal Head, Lokmanya Multipurpose Co-operative Society Limited.
"Sports is an important part of life and it is necessary for everyone's health. Our country is progressing in all sectors including sports. This year, we have received an overwhelming response which was beyond our expectations. Therefore, we should take inspiration from Puneites and we should organise more such activities in near future," said Muzaffar Pidhawala of Rajuri Steel.
"It was truly very inspiring to participate in the marathon. Some of our employees have also participated in the event. The marathon organised by Sakal was an excellent initiative. It will be remembered as Puneites have participated with great energy," said Joy Mishra, Head of Marketing, Pune, Vijay Sales.
"To create awareness about health among people, it is important to organise marathons around four to five times a year. Running is a good exercise to keep yourself healthy. It was our pleasure to participate in this marathon," said Dr Somnath Patil, Secretary, Dr DY Patil Deemed to be University.
"Students participating in the marathon got a new experience. It is very important for daily life. The World Health Organisation has proposed the concept of universities promoting health. Under those guidelines, the first health university will be established by Symbiosis International University. With this marathon, it is a message that for the overall development of students, they should be provided with health benefits and not just education," said Dr Rajiv Yeravdekar, Dean, Faculty of Health and Biological Sciences, Symbiosis International University. The Symbiosis International University, Health Sciences Department administered medical services at the marathon.
"Nowadays, the physical and mental health level of youths is deteriorating as most of the time they are at home. However, due to this marathon, they came out of their homes. The energy level of Pune is extremely good as they have participated with great enthusiasm. Everything at the marathon was planned and perfect," said Tapan Singhel, MD and CEO, Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company Limited.
