MUMBAI: The Athletics Federation of India has said that it has not granted recognition to the Pune International Marathon scheduled to be held in the city on December 3.
In a letter to its affiliated states, units and coaching camps in the country, the AFI said, “This is to inform you that Athletics Federation of India has not granted permission for Pune International Marathon,” reports PTI.
The AFI has advised participants against participating in the marathon, after some athletes approached the organisation about the status of the event
“You are strongly advised to skip the unrecognised marathon as AFI is unsure regarding the course measurement. AFI is concerned regarding the safety of all participants as AFI officials are not part of the unrecognised marathon,” the letter said.
The organisers however have expressed surprise over AFI’s ‘last-minute’ stance and have said the event will take place as per the schedule, and they have necessary recognition from the Association of International Marathons.
“All the participants from other countries are on their way to the city and the marathon will take place as per its schedule,” Pralhad Sawant, Secretary, PIM told PTI.
PIM trustee and vice president of Maharashtra Athletics Association Abhay Chhajed will talk to AFI officials about the issue, he added.
The PIM, brainchild of former Congress MP Suresh Kalmadi, is being held annually since 1983.
