This year146;s Pune Intl marathon dedicated to terror victims

8220;This year8217;s Marathon is dedicated to honor the heroes and victims of the recent terror attacks in Mumbai. With the special slogan, 8220;Salute our Heroes and Run for Unity8221;, this is Pune8217;s way of paying a tribute to the brave soldiers and other civilians who lost their lives in the fight against terrorism. Lakdipul will be called the Homage Bridge, as the runners will run wearing a white band to pay their respects to the martyrs,8221; said a press release issued by the Pune International Marathon Trust. However, the most unique and special feature of the Pune International Marathon is the 4.5 kms. AIDS Charity run called the 8216; Race against AIDS8217; .

The Pune International Marathon Trust has decided to dedicate this run towards the cause of AIDS awareness and India8217;s top personalities will participate in the 8220;AIDS Charity Run8221;. Sports stars, celebrities, corporates, educational institutions, doctors and defence forces will participate in large numbers.

The event will see about 50,000 participants competing in various categories stating from 3 kms to 42.195 kms. Boniface Muia Usisivu of Kenya is the favourite to win the Men8217;s Marathon with a best time of 2:08:00 and Birhan Agregawi Gebremichael of Ethiopia is the favourite to win the women8217;s half marathon with a best time of 1:09:12.

Prize money worth Rs. 25 lakhs is to be won and many other exciting prizes are in store. The 42.195 km route is designed in such a fashion that lakhs of spectators can line the route and be an integral part of the event.