For those who want to run, but do not want to suffer the sting of the June sun — here is an all-night marathon. The fifth edition of Dusk to Dawn (D2D) marathon, organised by Neville J. Bilimoria, is set to take place on June 11. The event, which was scheduled to take place last year, was postponed due to the Chennai floods.
“However, the registrations made then are still valid, and new ones are welcome till May 31,” says Neville. In cases where the registered participants are not able to make it, the registered amount, Neville assures, will go towards the funds that the event aims at raising for the underprivileged.
“This edition is a fundraiser to help the cause of education. We will be identifying a few schools, in Chennai and outside, which have poor infrastructure. With the funds we raise, we will help build classrooms, and toilets for girl children,” he says. D2D has partnered with Round Table India Area-2 for the same. The funds will go towards the Freedom Through Education Project of Round Table India.
On earlier occasions, D2D marathons have raised money for children with cerebral palsy, and for spreading awareness about organ donation. “We conducted two editions of marathons focussing solely on children with cerebral palsy — the first time, we raised Rs. 50 lakh, and the second time, Rs. 80 lakh. Through these funds, we were able to provide them the expensive TheraSuit therapy, and free treatment,” he says.
Charity is the focus, for Neville. “There is no competition; this is the only event, which has all the big running communities like Chennai Runners, Dream Runners, Cool Runners, Chennai Trekking Club, Tamil Nadu Cycling Club and others come together,” he says. “Also, it’s a family event. Anyone between the ages of eight and 80 can participate. We had a total of 6,300 participants in the last edition,” he adds.
The event includes cycling and running. The cycling event will be flagged off at 3 p.m. from Island Grounds, for the following categories: 25 km, 50 km, 75 km, 100 km and over 100 km. The running event will be flagged off at 10 p.m. for the 3 km, 5 km, 10 km and 21 km categories. The last date for registration is May 31. Those interested can register at www.d2dchennaima rathon.com. The fee is Rs. 850.
For a fun run
Stay hydrated. Take water with a pinch of salt.
Do not run empty stomach. Have light snacks (mostly carbs) before you start.
Humidity level might be high. Wear dry fit clothes.
