As an encouragement to the budding champions, the Kochi Corporation authorities have decided to give free entry for the Kochi International Half Marathon to student athletes who bag top medals in the State School Athletic Meet. The Half Marathon will be held here on December 29.
“The boys and girls, who bag first, second and third medals in the 1,500m, 3,000m, 5,000m and cross country will be given free entry to the half marathon. The registration will be free of cost,” said Kochi Mayor Tony Chammany.
He said the marathon organising committee will also bear the travel expenses, dearness allowance, food and accommodation of the student athletes participating in the half marathon. “One adult will be allowed to accompany the students. By giving them entry to the competition, we are giving them an opportunity to compete with international athletes which will help boost their confidence, fitness and stamina. We believe that this will help them in participating in such events with confidence in the future,” the Mayor said.
The student athletes who finish the marathon within the stipulated time will also be given rewards, he said.
The event offers a total prize money of `60 lakh with separate prize money for Indian athletes. More that 20 international athletes are expected to participate in the event. The winners of the Half Marathon will bag 5,000 dollars each while the runners-up will get 3,000 dollars each. The fastest man and woman athlete will be given `2 lakh each. The registration is restricted through entry fee, `200 for the competition and `100 for amateur run.