Commemorating National Youth Day and promoting a healthy and fit life style , Lions Club of Bicholim & Leo Club of Bicholim, with support from Vedanta Sesa Goa, organised the Republic Run 2026 at Bicholim. The event witnessed a vibrant display of energy and community spirit as over 800 participants made the event a tremendous success.
The annual run has evolved into a significant community fitness initiative, encouraging citizens across age groups to embrace active and healthy lifestyles. Vedanta Sesa Goa’s support for the event, as part of its’ YouTheChange, YouThePower’ initiative, extended into the third year running.
The event was graced by Chandrakant Shetye, MLA for Bicholim Constituency, who lauded the organisers and partners for sustaining a platform that promotes fitness and collective well-being, and encouraged the youth to make health and discipline integral to their daily lives.
Dhirajkumar Jagdish, Deputy CEO, Vedanta Sesa Goa – Iron Ore Goa, said: “The Republic Run has evolved into a meaningful community initiative that encourages people across age groups to adopt active and healthy lifestyles. Vedanta Sesa Goa is pleased to support platforms that promote fitness, discipline and a spirit of togetherness. The enthusiastic participation witnessed reflects a growing awareness around well-being and the importance of staying physically active.”
The Republic Run 2026 was organised in three categories – 2 km (for children aged 8–13 years), 3.5 km (open category for participants above 13 years) and 10 km (open category for participants above 13 years).
Sharing his experience, Naveen Hirekar, a participant, said, “It was encouraging to see so many children participating in the Republic Run. Such initiatives are essential in motivating children and people of all ages to step outdoors, engage in physical activity. It is a good initiative by the organisers & Vedanta Sesa Goa which helps create an inclusive platform for overall well-being of all.”
In the 2 km category, Vaibhav N. Chodankar and Garvi Kalangutkar emerged winners in the boys’ and girls’ segments respectively, while the 3.5 km category saw Parashuram Ghadi clinch first place in the men’s section and Dhriti Madkaikar in the women’s section. The 10 km category was won by Udesh Majik in the men’s section and Vaishnavi Wadar in the women’s section.
