With the city all set for hosting the first edition of the Kochi International Half Marathon this December, the organisers are taking necessary steps to ensure that the event will meet the guidelines set by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS).
The event is being organised by the Kochi Corporation in association with Push Integrated Communication Private Ltd. The Half Marathon which will be held on December 29 is expected to attract nearly 10,000 participants from across the country.
In order to ensure that the marathon will cover the distance specifications set by AIMS, its certified Measurer S Murukesu from Malaysia visited the Maharaja’s College ground, the starting point of the event, on Saturday. The 21-km course of the marathon will begin from the Maharaja’s College ground to Fort Kochi Veli ground, from where the participants will run back to the College ground.
Speaking to reporters after inspecting the Maharaja’s College ground, S Murukesu said that except for a few improvements in certain areas, the ground has all the facilities to host such an international event.
Also, a bicycle with specially equipped clocks will be operated through the stretch of the marathon to ensure that the distance was agreeable as per the specifications of AIMS. All the routes will be marked. Once completed, a report will be submitted to AIMS.
Mayor Tony Chammany said that the suggestions by Murukesu to widen the eastern gate of the stadium, leading to the MG road, will be taken up. AIMS has volunteered to sponsor funds for the same, he added. Also, the area at the south of Maharaja’s College ground will be upgraded for the event.