ନରେନ୍ଦ୍ରପୁର (Odisha): Ashok Dandsena’s story is one of grit, courage and determination. The winner of the 10 km category at the first edition of Tata Steel Kapilash Half-Marathon ( earlier name was Tata Steel Meramandali Half-Marathon) in Odisha’s Dhenkanal district, Ashok has set an example for others to learn from. For Ashok, more than receiving the prize amount of INR 61,000, it was winning the race that was a dream come true. Hailing from the remote district of Boudh, Ashok has already become a role model for others not just in his district but across Odisha.
“Running a long-distance race is not just a physical battle but a battle of the mind. It tests your will power. You must be determined to see the finish line and not give up,” says Ashok.
The 30-year-old started running distances around six years ago and has never looked back. He heard about the Tata Steel Kapilash Half- Marathon from a relative and immediately fixed his sights on the finishing line.
The second edition is scheduled on January 11, 2025 under the theme “Run to Protect Wildlife”, for which the registration drive is currently ongoing till December 15, 2024.
The Tata Steel Kapilash Half-Marathon has received global recognition from the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS) till December 2028. This validation by AIMS marked a pivotal milestone for the event.
