Shiv Nadar University's Inaugural 10K Challenge a grand success
The day began very early at Shiv Nadar University on Sunday (September 3) when over 1,200 participants in the inaugural 10K Challenge 2023.
As the gates opened at 4 AM, enthusiastic runners as young as 10 to senior citizens streamed in with gusto for the first such event held by the university.
"I'm immensely proud of the diverse athletes and runners who joined forces to conquer the Shiv Nadar 10K Challenge 2023. This event has showcased the unifying power of sports, celebrating both athletic triumphs and the strength of our community. The thrilling activities have transformed this journey into an incredibly positive experience for everyone involved, reminding us that our diversity is our ultimate strength in sports," says Dr. Amrish Tony, the university's Sports Director.
Prashant Choudhary, Sonu Kushwah and Yoonus Shah won the honours in the men's 10K challenge, while in the women's category, Sonam, Nisha Kumari and Arpita Saini were the winners.
"It was a heady mix of josh, junoon, joy and jubilation. The energy and enthusiasm were in full flow, and one could feel it in the air. It was an awesome event," said Raja Natarajan, Executive Director, Finance & Operations, who participated in the 5K walk.
The event had three categories - 5K walk, 5K run, and 10K run.
"Besides the great arrangements, the scenery and setting of the campus make the run more engaging," said 57-year-old Satish Chand, a retired home guard who participated in the 10K run.
In the men's 5K challenge, Abdhesh Chaudhary, Chetan Kumar and Abhishek Srivastav took the podium in the men's category, while Tanisha, Priyaka, and Priyanka Bhati displayed prowess in the women's event. Interestingly, of the 1,200 participants, 30% were women.
Vishal, a political science postgraduate student from SGTB Khalsa College, who travelled for the race from Najafgarh, was all praise of the arrangements done for the contestants. "The coaches and volunteers here were helpful, and the whole circuit had water and refreshments for the runners. The weather was also great," said Vishal, who had represented Delhi for the Olympic trials 2016 for the 3,000-meter steeplechase event.
"The efforts taken by the university in conducting this event are visible. The facilities provided were exceptional," says Ashok Bachas, an ultramarathon runner. Bachas, who currently works as a consultant in the telecom sector, is a retired junior warrant officer from the Indian Air Force. "I usually participate in 25 to 40-kilometre events, but I couldn't miss this as it was held in Delhi NCR, and I wanted to visit the university campus," he added. The 59-year-old completed the 10k run in 45 minutes.
For Harshit Chuniyal, a student of Father Agnel School, Noida, it was fun participating in the 5-kilometre run. "I took part in the event with my dad. I just loved it as I enjoy running. It was fascinating to see so many people running with me. I will surely take part in such events," said the 10-year-old.
The participants had the unique opportunity to explore the picturesque routes while enjoying a day filled with fitness, camaraderie, and community spirit.
Nimisha, product manager Ion Trading, said, "The green and picturesque university is a treat to visit. The route was very scenic, making it a pleasure to run. I am a recreational runner and have participated in around six events, but this event is special. The events I participated in earlier were sheer chaos, but this event has brought back the run in the running."