Over 7200 Jaffna youth join marathon organized by Jaffna security forces

Jaffna Peninsula, remained paralyzed for so many years, owing to cycle of LTTE terrorism is back in full spirits now as more and more private companies also have begun to extend their support for rejuvenation of the civil society.

Jaffna town and its suburbs sprang into life during the weekend when the biggest ever Nestle sponsored Marathon Race, competed by record 7200 runners of all areas in the peninsula took place amidst a huge gathering of enthusiastic Jaffna civilians of all ages.

The mammoth event, organized on an initiative taken by Major General Mahinda Hathurusinghe, Commander, Security Forces, Jaffna with the cooperation of Nestle Company Ltd came about after an absence of more than two decades. Major General Hathurusinghe amidst cheering and excitement signaled the onset of the run that covered a 10 km long distance starting from the vicinity of Alfred Duraiappa stadium. On completion of the Marathon, Nestle gave away valuable gifts and trophies to winners, in addition to distribution of T-shirts and Nestomalt container parcels among thousands of runners including the females. Major General Hathurusinghe, Nestle representatives and other invitees were associated with the distribution of awards.

A Taekwondo show, presented by Army experts followed after culmination of the distribution of prizes and trophies giving a novice experience to the spectators. The show simultaneously initiated Taekwondo training workshops, intended for promotion of the sport among school children in the peninsula under close supervision of Colonel B.C.J.F Rodrigo.

As the final leg of the day's itinerary, Jaffna youth in their thousands were entertained to a colossal musical evening at Duraiappa stadium. A galaxy of Tamil and Sinhala vocalists, drawn from the North and the South added thrilling melodies to the tunes of a popular music band as both vocal intonations and music rhythms rent the Jaffna air. The entertainment went on into late evening, joined by many thousands from all walks of life. Army troops provided their maximum support to the project and provided security to the venue in coordination with the Police.

Jaffna youth participated in Marathon race which is organizied by the Srilankan Army.The next and important matter is the article written by Navanthurai Gracian.It is a wonderful idea and I hope that it will induce the other comrades to follow his example .This is the best way to educate our sentimental crowds.The following comment by Com.Ho Chi Minh is for your attention,  "In general sense ,Orient people are very sentimental ,for them,one(real life) example is worth more  than hundred propaganda speeches"

(Com.Thavapalan.)