Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: Local runners Suraj Velip (30) and Swezial D’souza (22) stole the spotlight at the 11th edition of the Rotary Rain Run 2025, emerging as champions in the men’s and women’s 21 km timed category, respectively. Held in the heart of Goa during the scenic monsoon season, the event drew an impressive 2,478 runners from across Goa and other Indian states including Karnataka, Kerala, and Telangana.
Suraj Velip of Quepem clocked an impressive 1 hour 25 minutes 08 seconds, while Swezial, a student at St. Xavier’s College, Mapusa, triumphed in the women’s category with a time of 1 hour 49 minutes 27 seconds.
The event, hosted annually by the Rotary Club of Porvorim and Rotary Parivar, was flagged off from the SAG Athletics Stadium in Bambolim by dignitaries including Colonel Arpit Yadav (Deputy Commandant, 2 STC), Goa DGP Alok Kumar, Rotary District 3170 Governor Arun D. Bhandare, Rotary Rain Run Chairman Avinash Singh Parmar, Coordinator Shephan Shaikh, and Club President Harsh Thakkar.
In the 21 km category, Vinayak Gaonkar and Hansine Benoit secured runner-up positions in the men’s and women’s divisions, respectively. The 10 km timed run saw Hari Velip win the men’s race with a timing of 36 minutes 46 seconds, while Line Shetty clinched the women’s title with a time of 1 hour and 24 seconds.
The event also featured non-timed categories like the 5 km Dream Run and 2 km Fun Walk, with vibrant participation from senior citizens, children, and over 20 para-athletes. Notably, para-athlete Niranjan Jadhav completed the 10 km run, drawing applause from the crowd.
Swezial shared her excitement after the win: “Crossing the finish line first was an incredible moment. This victory reflects all the hard work and support I’ve received. I’m truly grateful.”
Meanwhile, Suraj Velip reflected on the run’s challenges, saying: “The first half felt easy, but the return stretch tested my stamina. Running is my passion and today’s victory is special.”
To enhance the monsoon vibe, runners passed through artificial rain showers placed at All India Radio (Panaji) and Dempo Nilaya (Taleigao) along the picturesque Miramar route.
The Indian Armed Forces played a vital role, offering logistical and volunteer support, helping with hydration stations, medical aid, and more. Participants in the 10 km and 21 km categories warmed up with yoga, while those in the shorter fun runs enjoyed an energizing Zumba session. The event also featured a live performance by Goan singer Lavina Soares, games, and dance activities in a dedicated Kids Fun Zone.
Chairman Avinash Singh Parmar emphasized the run’s social impact: “All proceeds will go towards the Prakash Cancer Aid Project, which supports free cancer detection services and promotes education and women’s health. The participation and enthusiasm shown by everyone, especially the para-athletes, were truly inspiring.”
The Rotary Rain Run is AIMS-certified (Association of International Marathons and Distance Races), ensuring global standards in race measurement and execution. All participants received finisher medals, while winners in the 10 km and 21 km categories were awarded trophies.
