Goa witnessed a spectacle of youthful energy and
exuberance as children between the ages of six and sixteen years
showcased their athleticism and competitive spirit at the second
edition of Policybazaar IRONKIDS Goa run on Saturday.
This unique run, organised as a curtain-raiser to the prestigious
IRONMAN 70.3 India race on Sunday, provided young participants with
the thrilling experience of healthy competition and the joy of outdoor
sport.
With the picturesque backdrop of Miramar in Panaji, the state capital
of Goa, the young athletes competed in three separate categories. Six
to eight-year-olds participated in a one-km run, nine to 12-year-olds
engaged in a challenging two-km run, while 13- to 16-year-olds pushed
their limits in a three-km run. The event, an initiative by Yoska
franchise owner of IRONMAN brand in India and supported by
Policybazaar, aimed to introduce children to the excitement of
competitive running and the importance of fitness from an early age.
Unlike traditional runs, the philosophy of Policybazaar IRONKIDS Goa
is not solely about winning; it is a celebration of participation and
the sheer joy of running.
Deepak Raj, race director and franchise owner of the IRONMAN brand in
India and CEO of Yoska said: "Winning isn't the main focus. It's about
children participating and experiencing the joy of running. We are on
a mission to instil the value of fitness in younger generations in
India".
The run was flagged off at 7 am by Ajit Roy IAS CM Secretary, Mamu
Hage, IAS Ex-North Goa Collector, Harleen Sawhney, Chairperson,
family welfare organization, Goa Military Station. The run received
overwhelming support from leading schools in Goa, including Sharada
Mandir and The Gera School. Families and friends of the children
cheered on from the sidelines, creating an atmosphere of encouragement
and camaraderie along the run’s route.
The young participants, regardless of their finishing position, were
awarded medals for their efforts. The medals, which were unveiled on
October 5, features a Goan waterfall as its integral design,
symbolising the outdoors and nature's very own source of energy.
Policybazaar, India's leading online insurance marketplace, the title
sponsor of IRONKIDS Goa, played a pivotal role in supporting the
event, aligning their commitment to promoting health and fitness among
the youth.
The success of Policybazaar IRONKIDS Goa has set the stage for future
runs involving children in other cities.