Women runners from Goa and across India have praised the “Women run the

world” theme of the 12 th SKF Goa River Marathon. The popular running event which attracts

runners from across India and Goa for the 10km, 21km and 42 km competitive races is

scheduled to be held on Sunday, December 11 at Chicalim.

Says Dolly D’Souza (48) Mumbai based runner, “When women run, it helps boost their

confidence, improves the way they look and feel and helps maintain their weight too.”

Dolly, who has been running for nine years is of the opinion that running marathons is always

a challenge for female marathoners, considering their responsibilities of running the house,

work and travel.

While Versha Dabas (28) who is married to a naval officer and based in Goa says, “The SKF

Goa river marathon is emotionally very close to me because it is my comeback to running.

While adapting to the corporate world, Covid and getting married, running had taken a

backseat. I am happy running and preparing for this marathon.” According to Versha, more

women should start running. “I wish for every woman to witness the rush of the finish line

because once you cross it, you are no longer the same person anymore,” Versha said.

Swarupa Bhadsavle (52), Pune based runner and coach is also of the opinion that women

must run. “Women of all ages must run. Running helps in sailing through physical

discomfort, emotional upheavals and builds mental strength,” she said. Swarupa is looking

forward to race day. “The SKF Goa river marathon is close to my heart as I ran my first half

marathon here in 2013.”

Finally, Sheriann Dourado (49) from Dabolim, Goa said, “It is important for women to take

part in marathons because once they cross the finish line, it gives them a sense of

achievement and a sense of pride.”

Sheriann is looking forward to race day and said, “I started my running at the Goa river

marathon in 2016 and have never looked back.”