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450 runners in 20 cities make the Anantapur Ultra Marathon a success

January 27, 2021

The Sixth Anantapur Ultra Marathon (AUM) concluded on 23rd January, 2021 in Bukkarayasamudram, Anantapur and in 20 cities in Spain, Germany, Australia, Ireland, Italy, Turkey, USA, and more.

Due to the pandemic, this year’s marathon was uniquely organized with 450 athletes running in their respective cities, of which 50 runners participated in Anantapur. These runners started from RDT High School for Hearing Impaired Children in Bukkarayasamudram and covered a distance of 20 KMs in four teams.

“This event holds a special place in our hearts as every year runners from different parts of the world join us in Anantapur. Due to COVID, they couldn’t be with us here but by organizing it in their own cities, they have shown their solidarity and affection. I want to congratulate all the runners and especially those here with us in Anantapur for making this year special,” stated Moncho Ferrer, RDT Program Director.

Every year, the runners outdo themselves. Participation in the marathon doubled as compared to last year and the runners raised around $206,000 which will be used to support RDT’s efforts to mitigate the harsh impact of COVID-19 and to provide education and healthcare for children from disadvantaged backgrounds in the Anantapur district.

“I couldn’t participate in the AUM last year but I am so glad to run this year. This year I missed the runners from other countries as well as the overnight run that made AUM so special. Nonetheless we did our best here and I am glad to support RDT’s cause,” shared Jyothirmai, a student athlete at Anantapur Sports Academy.

January 23rd marks the date when Vicente and Anna Ferrer arrived to Anantapur to work towards eradicating poverty, injustice and suffering – a mission that lives on in the work of RDT and through events like the AUM.

Here’s a glimpse of the event:

Excited along the way. ©Felita Viegas/RDT