Monnet Ispat & Energy Limited (MIEL) boosted its image in Odisha by bringing the `Monnet Go for Gold’  nation-wide torch rally to Bhubaneswar today. The rally, which is being organised by to generate inspiration for Indian contingent for the London Olympics 2012, caused a flutter while it was given a colourful reception at Kalinga Stadium here.

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, despite his busy schedule, found plenty of time to flag off the rally in the presence of MIEL Managing Director Sandeep Jajodia, hockey Olympian and Rajya Sabha Member Dilip Tirkey and India woman hockey team captain Asunta Lakra, former India woman football captain Sradhanjali Samantaray, international woman hurdler Anuradha Biswal, Asiad woman rowing bronze medallists Pratima Puhana, Pramila Prava Minz and international woman sprinter Srabani Nanda.

A `run for fun` by 12 budding athletes was conducted on the occasion. The torch rally, which was kick started earlier last month from Jammu, has travelled through many cities across the northern and eastern part of the country before completing its eastern sojourn in temple city Bhubaneswar.
The major halts for the contingent were at Chandigarh, Delhi, Mathura, Gwalior, Jhansi, Khajurao, Reva, Ranchi and Rourkela. ``The 12 athletes, carrying the torch, are set to cover over 6,000 kms across 50 cities, spreading the message of sportsmanship and unity,``  said Jajodia.