Army in collaboration with Sarhad Foundation Pune, others holds marathon events in Drass

Srinagar, June 30: Indian Army in collaboration with the Sarhad Foundation, Pune and civil administration held a series of marathon events in Drass Ladakh, to mark the Platinum Jubilee of the Zojila Battle, and the Silver Jubilee of Kargil Vijay Diwas.

The marathons honored the valor and sacrifice of the Indian Armed Forces during these pivotal military operations.

Flagged off by GOC of the Forever in Operations Division and Subedar Major Sanjay Kumar, PVC, the event began with a grand ceremony at the Zoji La War Memorial and Kargil War Memorial. Participants ran from the icy heights of Zoji La to the historic battlegrounds of Drass, with five runs ranging from 4 km to 44 km open to all age groups. The event saw widespread participation from national and local runners from the Union Territory of Ladakh.

Sarhad Shauryathon celebrated resilience and fortitude, strengthening the bond between the Indian Armed Forces and the civilians they protect. The runs challenged participants and left them with cherished memories, positioning Drass as a potential hub for adventure tourism.

Jaffar Ali won 10 km (male category) and Stanzin Chodol, 10 km (female catergory), Tirtha Kumar won 25 km (male category) and Tashi Ladol 25 km (female category), Nawang Tsering won 44 km (male category), and Diskit Dolma 44 km (female category).

Sanjay Nahar, Founder of Sarhad Pune, highlighted the inspiration behind Sarhad, crediting Gen VP Malik for encouraging its establishment post-Kargil War. "Today, we celebrate 25 years of Kargil Vijay Diwas with this magnificent Sarhad Shauryathon, with global participants paying tribute to the martyrs," Nahar stated. He emphasized the lasting impact of their efforts, promising continued support for the youth and residents of Kargil.

Meanwhile, athletes expressed that such platforms provide opportunities to showcase their talent and compete with people of international fame. They hoped that Sarhad will continue its efforts in encouraging the youth and people of Kargil.