Kenyan Rotich, Ethiopian Megersa win Sabarmati Marathon 2011

Kenyan Philmon Rotich and Ethiopian Gadise Fita Megersa became winners in the men and women category respectively at the second edition of the Sabarmati Marathon in Ahmedabad on Sunday.

Rotich timed 2hr 12min 02 sec to gain the first spot in the men's category of full marathon, while Megersa took 2hr 38min 54 sec to reach the finish line in the women's category. Both the winners were awarded Rs six lakh each for winning the event.

The Sabarmati Marathon was flagged off by Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday from the banks of the river Sabarmati here.

With over 9800 participants, including men, women, children, young and old, blind and differently-abled persons, the run received good response for its second edition with huge crowds lining up to cheer the runners along the 42 km route across the city.

The event was divided into three categories, namely 42-km full marathon, 21-km half marathon and 7-km dream run. Besides the registered runners, many school children also participated.

Enthused by overwhelming response, especially from the physically challenged, Modi said the annual event had added another feather to the city's pride, reflecting citizens' sportsmanly spirit and youthfulness.

"In the world of marathons, Ahmedabad has made its own place. Since the last two years, thousands of people, especially the youth, have been participating in this event with great zeal," he told the mediapersons after flagging off the marathon.