Kamal Ghorui
Photographed (L-R): Shakuntala Devi, Neha
NEW DELHI: The Times Internet Half Marathon saw strong participation from women athletes, with the under-29 10-kilometer category highlighting speed, determination, and emerging talent.Leading the category was 22-year-old Shakuntala Devi, who secured first place with a chip time of 42:31. Having been associated with running for the past five years, she credits her brother for introducing her to the sport and shaping her early journey. Shakuntla has represented at the national level, and after securing a position in her first marathon, she was encouraged to continue pursuing long-distance running. Since then, she has shown consistent progress, steadily building her performance.The second position was bagged by 18-year-old Neha, who clocked a chip time of 44:22. Having started running two years ago, Neha has been involved in sports from an early age, initially playing cricket and handball before transitioning into marathons. Speaking about her approach, she shared a dynamic perspective, saying she does not set fixed goals and prefers to focus on the present, adapting to opportunities as they come. She also described the Times Internet Half Marathon memorable experience.The third position was secured by Sweta Sah, 26 years old who clocked a chip time of 44:22, adding to the competitive edge of the category. Running for the past three years, she balances her profession as a physiotherapist with consistent training. For Sah, running is a practice of discipline and progress, and she is now preparing to take on longer distances with a focus on marathon running.The under-29 women’s category reflected a blend of emerging talent and evolving ambition, with runners at different stages of their journeys coming together on a common platform.As the race unfolded, it became evident that beyond timings and positions, the event celebrated intent and growth where each runner carried a story,and every finish line marked the beginning of something more.
