Goa-based marathoners consider the forthcoming 12th SKF Goa River Marathon, scheduled to be held in Chicalim on Sunday, December 11, their favourite marathon.
Pritiva Lobo (52), a Margao-based school teacher and regular half-marathoner, said, “The Goa River Marathon was my first marathon and, hence, is always close to my heart. I have been running in this race since 2013.”
Likewise, Sheetal Pai Kane (50), a Porvorim-based fashion designer, said, “I love the Goa River Marathon because it is organised by the runners for the runners and is therefore very unique.”
Amit Sardesai (47), a Chicalim-based civil engineer, said, “I started running the Goa River Marathon in the year 2013 and have not missed any event to date. I hope to run here for a long time.”
While Kabir Pinto Makhija, a real estate businessman from Panjim, said, “The Goa River Marathon has a very scenic route and is organised in my home state, making it very special.”
It is clear that running has become a part and parcel of life for these Goa-based runners.
“Running gives me a lot of happiness and keeps me fit and healthy,” said Pritiva. While Amit said, “Running started as a means to lose excess weight but has now become a very important part of my daily life.”
Kabir, who admits to being a sportsman from a young age, said, “I took to long-distance running 12 years ago to challenge myself and push my boundaries.”
The excitement among these runners is very high. Sheetal and her Run for Life group are organising a promotional run for the SKF Goa River Marathon in the Salvadore de Mondo area at 6 am on Saturday, November 26.
“We run past very scenic backwaters and are hoping that a lot of the local runners will join us for this run,” Sheetal said.
To register for the 12th SKF Goa River Marathon, visit: www.skfgoarivermarathon.com
