Chennai, 16th July 2023: Tamil Marathon, the third edition of the fundraiser was held today for the promotion of Tamil arts & culture, and the welfare of people in Tamil Nadu’s villages. The event was held at Island Grounds as the starting and finishing point, and attracted about 10,000 participants.
Mr M S Bhaskar, Former Director of Rural Development & Panchayat Raj flagged off the 21 KM and 42 KM races. Thiru. Viyagappa Antony Samy, organic farmer-scientist of Tamil Nadu and National Award Holder for the innovation of the new acid lime variety, flagged off the 10 KM race. Mr Hemanth R, Founder, Tamil Marathon flagged off the 5 KM and 3 KM races.
Each participant got an event T-shirt, and BIB/chest number. Tracking chips were given for the participants of select event categories. Finisher medals, gift hampers, badges and digital participation certificates were presented to eligible participants, while cash prizes were given to outstanding performers.
Organised by Neighbourhood Foundation, a city-based NGO, Tamil Marathon 2023 raised Rs. 25 lakhs. The fund will be utilised for the welfare of 100 Tamil folk artists, and for the healthcare and educational needs of people in 100 villages across Tamil Nadu.
Commenting about the event, Mr Hemanth R, Founder, Tamil Marathon, said, “Tamil Marathon is the only sports event that connects Tamil people worldwide through Marathon. It is an initiative to promote Tamil heritage and to rejuvenate the villages of Tamil Nadu. We make sure that 100% of the proceeds go directly to the promotion of Tamil arts and the welfare of people in over 100 villages of Tamil Nadu. Some of the specific projects we support are: folk art programs; dental, eye and general checkup medical camps for villagers, nutrition camps for pregnant women, and vaccination and treatment of livestocks.”