Hundred and seventy three relentless runners from Bhutan and countries around the world participated in 13th Thunder Dragon Marathon in Paro yesterday. 23 years old Goma Pradhen set a new record at the Thunder Dragon marathon by completing 21km women category in 1 hour 47 minutes.
Goma Pradhan from Dagana a serial marathoner has a record of completing a 3000m race in 12 minutes 26 seconds and a record of 1 hour 24 minutes in a 21km Coronation marathon. She told BBS that she did not give her best in this marathon because she is concerned about her fitness for the coming Coronation Marathon on the 2nd of June. Still, she completed the race in 1 hour 47 minutes Last year Chimi Dema completed the same loop in 2 hours 1 minute.
Pem Dechen, a trainee at Paro College of Education finished the race 26 minutes later claiming the second position. And 27 year old, Dechen Tshomo ended the race in 2 hours 20 minutes, coming third in the 21Km category.
In 42km man’s category, 37 years old Tashi Norbu with Royal Bhutan Army won by completing the race in 3 hours 17 minutes. 19 years old Kinley Tenzin studying at Yangchenphug Higher Secondary School reached the finish line 7 minutes faster than Nima Yoeser and claimed the second position.
In an open marathon for foreigners, John Robida completed 21 km race in 1 hour 46 minutes followed by Mike Gratton who completed the race in 2 hours 17 minutes. There were around 74 foreigners participating in the Marathon.
Thunder Dragon Marathon is an annual event organized by Blue Poppy Tours and Treks.
