As part of the ongoing Golden Jubilee celebrations marking 50 years of Amlarem Civil Sub-Division, a marathon was successfully organised on Saturday morning by the Office of the Sub-Divisional Officer (Civil), Amlarem, through the Sports Sub-Committee of the Golden Jubilee Celebration Committee, in collaboration with the Amlarem Sub-Divisional Sports Association (ASSA). The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from youths across the sub-division and aimed to promote sportsmanship, unity and healthy living among the people. The programme was made possible through the collective participation and cooperation of all stakeholders including government officials, traditional heads, sports bodies, volunteers and the public.
The marathon featured two categories. The 10 km race for Senior Boys (16 years and above) started from Pdengshakap Village, while the 7 km race for Senior Girls (16 years and above) began from Amtasam Village. The finishing point for both races was at Padu Taxi stand, Amlarem main market area. Participants reported at their respective starting points at 5:00 AM.
Before the flag-off, Shri Lahkmen Rymbui, Hon’ble Minister for Education, Government of Meghalaya, and MLA of Amlarem Constituency, addressed the participants at the starting points. He was accompanied by Shri Medling Swer, MDC War East, Kum. Vevotelu Kezo, SDO (Civil) Amlarem, Shri Korno N. Sangma, SDPO Amlarem, Dr. D. Lyngdoh, BDO, along with officials, representatives of ASSA, and local traditional leaders.
In his address, Shri Lahkmen Rymbui stated that the day was special for the people of the Amlarem Sub-Division as the region celebrates 50 years of its establishment. He appreciated the participation of the youths and said that such events reflect the spirit of unity, determination and progress among the people of the sub-division. He emphasised that a marathon is not only a race to reach the finishing point but also a test of patience, endurance and perseverance. He encouraged the participants to give their best and strive to reach their goals in life.
The marathon recorded a participation of 59 runners in the men’s category and 18 runners in the women’s category.
In the Boys’ Category,
1st Prize: Lamphrang Surong
2nd Prize: Khanbit Langshiang
3rd Prize: Kamniwan Biam
In the Girls’ Category,
1st Prize: Gritfy Dhar
2nd Prize: Dabasia Diamki Dkhar
3rd Prize: Daphimon Khyriem
The winners received cash prizes of ₹10,000 for the first position, ₹7,000 for the second position, and ₹5,000 for the third position.
During the closing felicitation ceremony, Smt. Vevotelu Kezo, SDO (Civil) Amlarem, congratulated all the participants and winners for the successful conduct of the marathon. She noted that many participants had expressed that they took part not only to win medals but also to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of Amlarem Sub-Division. She highlighted that completing a marathon requires discipline, determination and perseverance, and encouraged continued participation in future events organised as part of the jubilee celebrations.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Medling Swer, MDC War East, expressed happiness over the enthusiastic participation in both categories. He said the event reflected a strong sense of unity and community spirit among the people of the region. He congratulated all participants, especially the winners, and encouraged those who did not secure prizes to take pride in completing the race.
Delivering the main address during the closing ceremony, Shri Lahkmen Rymbui congratulated all participants and winners, stating that everyone who took part in the marathon should consider themselves winners. He remarked that the Golden Jubilee of the Amlarem Sub-Division is a significant milestone, noting that it is among the oldest sub-divisions in the state. He acknowledged the cooperation of government officials, the organising committee and the public in making the celebrations successful.
He further urged the youth to take responsibility for the development of the region and to work collectively for the progress of the sub-division. The Minister also called upon residents to maintain cleanliness and protect the natural beauty of the area, stating that environmental responsibility should be a shared commitment of the community.
Earlier in the programme, the Block Development Officer welcomed the participants and thanked the Minister, MDC, SDO, officials, organisers and village leaders for their cooperation in successfully organising the event. He said the marathon was organised to commemorate the 50-year milestone of the Amlarem Sub-Division and to spread awareness about the jubilee celebrations.
The marathon formed one of the key events under the year-long Golden Jubilee celebrations of Amlarem Sub-Division, which aim to bring together communities through sports, cultural activities and public participation.
