Third Nestomalt mini marathon today

Anushka WITHANAGE

The Nestomalt Mini Marathon is gathering steam. The first two were held in Anuradhapura and Ampara while the third Mini Marathon will be held in Kurunegala on September 19 (Saturday) in four stages. The event is expected to generate tremendous spectator interest with a large number of participants from schools billed to face the starter.

It will be flagged off at 8 a.m. on Saturday with participants asked to report to the starting point at 6 a.m. to undergo a medical check up in keeping with the tournament rules.

The event will be divided into two segments with runners from islandwide permitted to compete for honours in the open marathon.

The second segment will be confined to schoolboys and girls above the age of 15 years from the Anuradhapura district.

Handsome prizes are on offer for the winners who will sweat it out braving the hot afternoon sun as prospective participants seek to make a name for themselves.

The first three winners will receive Rs.10,000, Rs.7,500 and Rs.5,000 each and trophy, medal and certificate respectively while the first ten to complete the event will receive a gift hamper from Nestomalt and a certificate.

The schools segment is also expected to generate much interest with the cream of the runners from schools in Anuradhapura competing.

The winner and two runners-up will carry cash prizes of Rs.5,000, Rs. 3,000 and Rs. 2,000 plus trophy, and certificate respectively while the first ten participants to complete the marathon will receive a Nestomalt gift hamper and certificate.

For athletic enthusiasts in Kurunegala, Saturday will be a special day where this event is expected to be lapped up from start to finish.

Organisers said that already large numbers of spectators are said to be eagerly looking forward to the mini marathons, which will bring about a sporting atmosphere in the city of Kurunegala come Saturday.