Panaji: Nearly 500 senior citizens participated in a five-kilometre walkathon at Miramar Circle on Sunday, prompting organisers to close registrations a week in advance due to the heavy response.
The event, held on Sunday, drew 470
participants and saw many seniors completing the route, with several saying they had exceeded their own expectations.
The walkathon featured yoga dance performances by seniors from the B N Melvani Recreation Centre for Senior Citizens before the warm-up session led by fitness coach Sanjeev Patil. Chief Guest and rapper Baba Sehgal interacted with participants and flagged off the walk along with guest of honour and Panaji mayor Rohit Monseratte.
The route was lined with water and electrolyte stations at 500-metre intervals, along with a health support tent offering free physiotherapy advice. Live music by musicians Anand Raikar, Carlos Gonsalves, Roque Lazarus and Francisco Azevedo added to the atmosphere, with many walkers stopping to dance as they passed.
Families, friends and former classmates joined the walk, and organisers said more than 70 per cent of participants completed the full distance. An 86-year-old participant said that next year’s walk should be longer as the five-kilometre stretch felt easy. After the walk, participants received medals and refreshments, with photo sessions held at a dedicated booth. The Models Group supported the event as title sponsor, while Smart Investments by Khairoo Khavtay was co-sponsor. The Reserve Bank of India, Panaji conducted a financial awareness outreach with a selfie stand featuring ‘Money Kumar’.
The event was organised by Rotary Club of Panaji Riviera. Club president Jeet Tolani welcomed participants and event chair Raja Melvani briefed them on the route and safety measures. Organisers said they intend to continue the walkathon as an annual activity promoting active ageing and community participation.
