Arjun Tudu and Samsad Ara Begum emerged winners in above-18 year category of the Mini Marathon, which was organised by the State Sports & Youth Services Deparment on the occasion of birth anniversary of legendary statesman Biju Patnaik and Panchayat Raj Divas here today.

The 5km-run was flagged off by Sports Minister Chandra Sarathi Behera. A total cash prize of Rs 1,58,000 was given to top five runners from each category (both men & women). Ranjit Mahanta and Arati Mahanta were the winners in the above-50-years category. Dilip Naik and Suhana Parmin triumphed in the 15-18-years category.

According to DSYS press release, around 2500 competitors started the race and finished it as well. Winner in above-18 category were awarded Rs 12,000, while those in above 50-year and 15-to-18 year categories received Rs 7000 respectively.

The cash awards were presented by Bhubaneswar North MLA Priyadarshi Mishra in the presence of Bhubaneswar Parliament Member Dr Prasanna Kumar Patasani and Sports Department Joint-Secretary Manoj Kumar Padhy.

The run began from the Biju Patnaik Park and then went through the Sisu Bhawan Square, Raj Mahal Square, AG Square, Governor House Square, Power House Square and culminated at the Kalinga Stadium Gate No 3, Kalinga Stadium Main ground.