KOCHI: In a unique attempt, Manmadhan Vijayan Nair will embark on a marathon on his day of retirement. Mr Nair, an accounts officer in BSNL for 35 years, is excited to run the marathon scheduled for November 31. The 60-km run will start at 7.30 pm from Kochi and end by 7.30 am in December at his native place in Kottayam. “My objective is to create awareness about the importance of streetlights. The number of road accidents is rising, especially during night, because of poor streetlights. Pedestrians are afraid of getting knocked down by speeding vehicles. Well lit roads can reduce accidents,” Mr Nair opined.
He has got an overwhelming support from his friends and colleagues for the event and wants to create awareness on health and fitness too. “I also want to educate people about the importance of exercise and expect my initiative to inspire at least a few people,” he added. Going by his claim, ultra marathon is the first of its kind in the state. In this marathon he will be accompanied by 20 people. Two vehicles have been arranged to escort them during the overnight marathon. The ultra marathon is expected to complete within 10 hours. The official inauguration of the event will be in Kochi at 5.30 pm. A regular at different marathons, he runs around 10 km every day.
