The 9th edition of the Goa Tourism Nuron Rotary Rain Run, an internationally endorsed event with various categories for participants in the open and veteran (45 years and above) sections, will be underway in the state in July.
The run, which has earned the distinction of being a certified measured course by World Athletics, a global sports governing body, in cooperation with the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races, will be assisted by the Indian Army and Navy personnel.
Members of the two military wings will also be participating in the event as well as serving as volunteers along the route of the run.
The latest edition of the Goa Tourism Nuron Rotary Rain Run, organised by the Rotary Charitable Trust of Porvorim, will have race categories that include a 2 km fun walk, a 5 km dream run and a timed 10 km and 21 km run.
Over a thousand participants have registered for this year's run so far. Registration for the event, which is scheduled to be held on July 30, closes on July 25.
The run's 9th edition will start at 5.30 am for the 21.1 km run from the Sports Authority of
Goa athletics stadium, Bambolim, Goa. The course will take participants to the Miramar Circle, where they will turn around and head back towards the stadium.
The route for the run is set against the stunning backdrop of the sea-facing roads of Bambolim and Dona Paula, and runners will be assisted by a team of dedicated volunteers along the route.
The volunteers will provide essential amenities, such as water, to keep participants energised. Additionally, the volunteers will offer medical assistance to any runners in need, prioritising the well-being and safety of all participants.
Water stations and ambulances will be on standby at strategic locations, while washrooms will also be organised for the convenience of runners. The winners of every category will receive trophies.
A key objective of the Goa Tourism Nuron Rotary Rain Run, coordinated by renowned triathlete Guirish Sawant, is to raise awareness about the significance of leading a healthy lifestyle.
"The run is supported by the Indian Army and the Indian Navy and is aimed at promoting the importance of physical fitness, wellness and overall well-being among individuals. It also serves as a platform to inspire participants and the community at large to embrace healthy habits, make informed choices, and prioritise their health and fitness in their daily lives," says Avinash Singh Parmar, the chairman and spokesperson of Rotary Rain Run.
Since its inception in 2015 by the Rotary Club of Porvorim, the Rain Run has gained immense popularity, attracting runners not only from India but also across the globe, with over nine thousand participants over the past eight years.
The organisers have also partnered with Nuron, a new-age internet company that prioritises societal well-being.
“Nuron places great importance on organising society runs to emphasise the significance of community engagement and contribution,” says R Venkatesh, the founder-president of Nuron.
Umesh Naik, the president of the Rotary Club of Porvorim, says, "The proceeds generated from this event are dedicated to supporting the Prakash Cancer Aid Project (PCAP). Through the year, we will be organising women-related health camps, cancer screening initiatives and health talks among other events.”
The PCAP, an initiative that focuses on women's health, specifically related to breast and cervical cancer, is headed by Shephan Sheikh.
Naik further said that the Rotary Club also extends support to various educational institutions across Goa and outside, and has adopted Smt Sunandabai Bandodkar High School in Salvador do Mundo, assisting the institution with resources, infrastructure and educational support.