Mysuru: Hundreds of youths, nursing students and fitness enthusiasts took part in the ‘Nasha Muktha’ Mysuru Marathon, jointly organised by JSS Hospital, JSS College of Nursing and JSS School of Nursing, Mysuru, as part of International Nurses Day in city yesterday.

The marathon was flagged-off by Mysuru SP Mallikarjun Baladandi in front of Kote Anjaneyaswamy Temple at Mysore Palace North Gate.

Speaking on the occasion, SP Mallikarjun Baladandi said, “In the recent years, youths were falling prey to narcotic substances as they were facing difficulties to come out of addiction. Under such circumstances, hundreds of youngsters taking part in a marathon organised as part of International Nurses Day to create awareness on drugs is a good development.”

Mysuru SP also added that apart from Police and doctors, people should also join in realising the aim of drug-free society and urged people to inform the Police on coming across drug addicts. “It is important that youths get involved in one or the other physical activities as they are the strength of our country,” he added.

Speaking of the occasion, JSS Dental College and Hospital Associate Professor and Cyclist Dr. Brinda Suhas Godhi, who was the guest of honour, said, “Having mental and physical balance was important for everyone. Only running will not help in strengthening the body. Practicing yoga and other activities will help in keeping the body fit. I started walking and running at the age of 40 and later in 2017, I started cycling to make my life more meaningful.”

“At first, I started cycling for 16-km but now I have pedalled 3,700 km from Kashmir to Kanyakumari in 22 days. Being a Dentist, I took the opportunity to create awareness on dental health and cancer among 1,800 children in every town I passed,”  she added.

The marathon, which was flagged-off from Kote Anjaneyaswamy Temple, passed through City Bus Stand, Mysuru City Corporation, Basaveshwara Circle, Bengaluru-Nilgiri Road, before culminating at the starting point.

Prizes were also distributed to the winners of the marathon.