Soldierathon 2024 Pune Marathon Honours 1971 War Heroes; Roseland Residency, Joins with 50 Participants in SBI CME Event
Soldierathon 2024 Pune Marathon Honours 1971 War Heroes; Roseland Residency, Joins with 50 Participants in SBI CME Event
The SBI CME Soldierathon, held on the expansive and serene campus of the College of Military Engineering (CME), Pune, was a resounding success. Organized by Fitistan – Ek Fit Bharat, this extraordinary event celebrated the bravery and sacrifices of India’s Armed Forces, particularly in the historic Sappers War of 1971. Beyond paying homage to these heroes, the marathon raised 135 lakh for the Paraplegic Rehabilitation Center, Kirkee, Pune, contributing to the rehabilitation and care of injured soldiers.
The event commenced at 6:00 AM with the flag-off ceremony, graced by esteemed dignitaries including Lt. Gen. A.K. Ramesh, Major General Gaurav Kaushik, VSM, Sh. Ram Singh, GM of SBI, Sh. Satish Kumar, DGM of SBI, and Brig. Pravin Shinde, among others. Fitistan’s co-founder Mrs. Shilpa Bhagat and sponsors such as Credila and Aditya Pittie lent their support, amplifying the significance of the occasion. The participants experienced the unique beauty of the 3,600-acre CME campus, complete with lush greenery, serene lakes, and glimpses of migratory birds, creating an inspiring backdrop for the event.
Over 8,000 runners participated in the event, which featured three categories: 21 km Half Marathon, 10 km Run, and 5 km Run. Participants included military personnel, veterans, fitness enthusiasts, and civilians of all ages, running side by side to honor the sacrifices of India’s armed forces. Roseland Residency from Pimple Saudagar was among the biggest participating residential societies, with 50 participants, including 23 ladies, 17 gents, and 10 kids.
“We are proud to be a society with 50 participants in the marathon,” said Chandan Chaurasia, a resident of Roseland Residency, speaking with Pune Pulse. The society’s participants included Master Shaurya M, Master Aarav C, Miss Shriya J, Miss Shreenika G, Miss Falguni C and Miss Manasvi P , who ran the 10 km race, and Master Arjun, Miss Kimaya T and Master Sarthak J and Master Paarth C, who completed the 5 km run.
The event served as a platform for civilians to connect with the military community, fostering a deeper appreciation for the discipline and courage exhibited by the armed forces. The SBI CME Soldierathon 2024 was a fitting tribute to the bravery and discipline of the armed forces, and a celebration of the historic Sappers War of 1971.
The success of the event was made possible by the support of sponsors and Fitistan’s co-founder, Shilpa Bhagat. The event’s impact will be felt long after the finish line, with the funds raised going towards the rehabilitation and care of injured soldiers.
