The sixth edition of India’s signature women’s only run, Pinkathon, is here. Another chance for first-time runners to take the leap
“We talk a lot about healthcare, it is our responsibility to take care of our health, for ourselves, our families and everyone we love,” said Milind Soman, speaking at the launch of the sixth edition of COLORS Pinkathon Bengaluru 2018. “It is for every woman who has been neglecting her health for various reasons. She needs to take out a little bit of time in the day for herself, not just for her physical health but also for mental health and emotional balance.” The Pinkathon is a women’s only run and will be held on Sunday, February 18, 2018 at Kanteerva Grounds, Bengaluru.
At the launch, there was a panel featuring inspiring women including 101-year-old world-record holding athlete Mann Kaur; Anju Maudgal Kadam – Co- Founder 100 Sari pact; Dr. Monika Pansari – Consultant Onco surgeon (Apollo Hospitals); and Bhumika Patel, marathoner, who was feautured among the gamechangers 2017in US Magazine’s elite list of 21 women who are transforming the world.
Prevention and cure
“As oncologists we focus more on prevention and early detection,” Monika said. “When it comes to prevention we speak about the negative effects of alcohol and tobacco. Along with that we also speak about fitness as obesity is associated with several malignancies, including those of the breast, endometrium, stomach and pancreas. We need to be physically active, and the Pinkathon is a good platform to start.”
Monika started running with last year’s Pinkathon and will be running the 10k this year. She also encouraged all women over 45 to take annual mammograms and pap smears for early detection of cancer.
Each participant in the Pinkathon will be given a free medical check up at Apollo as well as a free mammogram for those over 45. These tests are transferable and can be donated by the participants to other women.
Cancer conqueror Aparupa Gupta spoke of her journey, inspiring women to take part in the movement to fitness and reinforcing the importance of a healthier and fitter life.
Over 100 visually impaired women, trained by Bhumika Patel, will also be participating in the different run categories. They will be accompanied by their running partners who have been training with them. Acid attack survivor, Pragya Prasun, who also addressed the audience, will be the mascot for the visually impaired squad.
“Pinkathon is more than a marathon,” Milind said. “It is the seed of change and the beginning of a movement that is carried forward by a growing community of empowered women across India, who share a belief that a healthy family, nation and world begins with empowered women. The first step in empowerment is taking control of your health, respecting yourself and celebrating the value you bring to your family and society. Empowerment is not a gift of society; it is a gift you give yourself.”
“Fitness is liberating. If a culture of regular exercise and fitness must take root in India, our women need to become aware about the benefits of fitness. They need to be able to get out and run, which doesn’t happen enough due to various cultural reasons. We now organize Pinkathon in eight cities. More than 10000 women run at each of these events. They run in running gear but also in sarees, salwar kameez, hijabs or whatever attire they deem fit and keeps them comfortable.”
All proceeds raised from the event will be used for the expenses incurred in organizing and marketing the event, and by the Women’s Cancer Initiative in its fight against breast cancer.
Log on to www.pinkathon.in to register.
Article Source: The Hindu