PANAJI: High quality sporting spirit and camaraderie was the highlight of the 11th SKF Goa River marathon held at Chicalim-Vasco on Sunday. Two incidents stood out and helped enhance the stature of the event, says a press release.
Pravin Zele, a Pune-based running coach did not bat an eyelid in helping Dymon Colaco, a Goa-based runner across the finish line by almost carrying him on his shoulders for the last 400 metres.
Said Zele, “I am a running coach. In every marathon that I take part in, I end up helping at least 40-50 runners complete their races successfully by encouraging them and giving them a helping hand. I saw that Dymon was badly dehydrated. Hence, I made him drink sufficient water and then carried him across the line. I was very happy to do this.”
Dymon Colaco, a Margao-based engineer said, “I am eternally grateful to Pravin Zele for his kind act. I got cramps in both my legs. Zele helped me finish my 21km half marathon.”
Similarly, Pradeep Kumbhar of Mumbai, a former triathlete was the only blade runner at the event and participated in the 10km race. Addressing the audience post the race, Pradeep said, “Two years back, I was hit by a truck on the highway and lost my right leg. My entire sporting life came crashing down. However, I have got a blade fixed only recently and decided to bounce back by participating in the 10km running event.”
