CSS Mumbai team sweated out for a good cause on 16th February 2014.
That was the day when the Hiranandani Thane half marathon was held. The 2014 HTHM which was held under the aegis of Athletics Federation of India, had two categories – Half Marathon – 21.097 km and the Green Run – 7 km.
CSS Mumbai led by Jairam KR, Director CSS India had a team of 20 runners for this event. Many of them were experienced with other marathons as well. The race has twin objectives. Firstly the registration fee collected from participants was donated to a charitable institution doing social work. The amount collected through registrations during the last race was donated to Ruhi – an NGO associated with Tata Memorial Hospital who helps in treating cancer in children.
This year they are supporting Mumbai Mobile Creches – an NGO providing shelters to construction workers children at the construction sites and Jaipur foot (BMVSS), the world’s largest organization serving the disabled. This NGO provides all its assistance including artificial limbs, calipers and other aids and appliances totally free of charges. The race also takes up a cause in the social sphere every year. This year the organisors have chosen the cause of the national sport of India, Hockey.
Hockey as a sport has a glorious history in India. The national game was once the national pride. Hockey announced India’s presence on the world stage with victories at six successive Olympics. But today, very few play hockey and the same is being neglected in the country. Supporting this cause is to create how so ever small mind share and heart share for the national sport among people at large.
The route for the run had been carved out amid picturesque Hiranandani Estate-Brahmand-Upvan Lake-Vartaknagar and back. According to the organizers, 100 top winners will be given hockey sticks and balls to promote the game. Besides, schools with a good number of participants will also be presented hockey kits. The event is recognized by Athletics Federation of India.
By being a part of this event, CSS Mumbai has shown its commitment to social causes and shows how important is fitness in an organization for supporting a healthy work culture.