Journal Entry: Civil Service Marathon 2024

Date: March 9, 2024

As I reflect on the today's event, participating in the Civil Service Marathon 2024, I am filled with a mixture of pride and concern. The main objective of this marathon was clear from its inception 2019- to promote the health and well-being of civil servants. It's a noble cause, one that resonates deeply with me and many others who took part in this endeavor.

The organizers had meticulously planned the marathon, dividing 408 participants into three categories to accommodate participants of different demographics. Women were identified with pink number tags, men under the age of 54 with yellow tags, and veterans aged 54 and above with red tags. This categorization not only added a sense of inclusivity but also allowed for fair competition within each group.

The flag-off ceremony was a moment of anticipation and excitement. As a participant in the yellow category, I eagerly awaited the start of the race. At exactly 7:00 AM, the yellow category commenced, followed by the pink and red categories five and ten minutes later. The route was laid out, stretching from Changlingmithang to 200 meters below Thimphu city welcome gate for the yellow category, covering a total distance of 15 kilometers (to and from). The pink and red categories had a slightly shorter route, spanning 10 kilometers from Changlingmithang Stadium to a U-turn near Dawa Store Babesa.

As I embarked on the marathon, the crisp morning air filled me with a sense of determination. The streets were lined with fellow participants, each driven by their own motivations. Some sought personal achievement, while others aimed to set new records. For me, it was about investing in my health, embracing the opportunity to push my limits and strengthen my resilience.