Over nine thousand participants run for glory in New Delhi's oldest marathon

New Delhi, Feb 19 (ANI): Over nine thousand professional and amateur runners participated in New Delhi's oldest half marathon on Sunday.

The marathon went through some of the most picturesque areas of city including Rajpath, Parliament Street and Raisina Road before it came to an end near India Gate.he marathon was flagged of by former Olympian P.T Usha and former athlete Praveen Kumar.

Speaking about the marathon, Usha said that such events would increase the morale of athletes and would generate interest among the public.

"Today it's organized very well. This is I think the oldest marathon in our country and even they are giving the highest prize money also" Usha said.

The run was conducted in circles measuring 10.5 kilometres, which means running four times the circle for the full marathon and twice for the half-marathon.

Kumar sounded hopeful for the future of Indian athletes and said that such events surely generate a buzz among youngsters.

"The organizers should get full credit for such good work. There is an interest which has developed amongst the people, especially youngsters and children," Kumar said.

The marathon was open only to Indian nationals and also served as one of the qualification races for the selection of athletes for London Olympics Marathon. (ANI)