It's fun on the run for Bangalore's denizens

BANGALORE: It was half past eight when chief minister BS Yeddyurappa reached the Sree Kanteerava Stadium to inaugurate the fourth edition of the World 10k Bangalore.
He was greeted by around 7,500 runners at the starting point for the Open 10k event. Spurred by the enthusiasm of the crowd, the CM also joined the multitude in celebrating the joy of running, and completed half a lap at the stadium.
He was joined by home minister R Ashoka and Sandalwood hero Ganesh. "I walk regularly in the morning. But today I enjoyed running here," he said later.
Sheer enthusiasm was in the air on a day when the city's running enthusiasts hit the roads en masse - approximately 22,000 of them - on a humid Sunday morning, cheered by stars from Sandalwood, cricket and other sports.
Bollywood stars Rahul Bose and Gul Panag set the ball rolling leading the Open 10K race. "Personally I had a relaxed run. But Gul was terrific," Bose tweeted after the finish.
But there were runners like Jay Srinivasan who is a regular in Bangalore 10k. "I'm participating in the event for the third consecutive year. I request the organizers to give preference for serious runners next year. Those who run for fun hold our way often," said the 47-year-old who is planning to compete in the New York marathon too.
Even senior citizens showed plenty of energy and cricketer Venkatesh Prasad was bowled over by their commitment. The Majja run too attracted the biggest crowd and many of the participants found it as an avenue to raise social issues.
Radio Jockey Raju pasted Indian currency all over his body and proclaimed: "I am the most corrupt man in the country because you people kept quiet."
Even as the race came to an end, festivities near the athletes holding area continued. Many athletes were seen greeting each other with hopes to meet again for the next year's World 10k.