The run which included three categories -- a 10 kilometre (open category) for professional runner... Hundreds join a commemorat

The run which included three categories -- a 10 kilometre (open category) for professional runners, a five kilometre run for school children and cadets of the National Cadet Corps and a 1.5 kilometre run for invitees and celebrities -- was organised in the national capital to mark the '200 days to go for commencement of the games.

India is hosting the games for the first time. It will be held in Hyderabad and Mumbai from October 14-21, 2007 under the aegis of International Military Sports Council (CISM).

Defence Minister A. K. Antony, who flagged off the 1.5 kilometre run, said such events promote team spirit and develop the personality of the armed forces personnel.

"Personally I am excited. This will give them more team spirit, camaraderie, more tolerance. Their personality will become more perfect, so, it will enhance their leadership qualities. So, after these kinds of events, they will become more capable. Wherever they are they will be able to serve their country much more efficiently," he said.

Sky Diving by world-renowned 'Akashganga' Sky Diving team of Indian Air Force, Para-Motor flying displays and a cultural show were also part of the event's programme.

Around 6000 sportsmen and women from the armed forces of more than 100 countries will participate in the eight-day extravaganza. While 25 per cent of the participants are Olympics medal winners, half of them are women.

The sailing and triathlon events will be held in Mumbai, while the rest of the events will be in Hyderabad for which infrastructure is being developed.

Hockey and kabaddi will be played as demonstration sports. Equestrian and polo which are not included as disciplines in the games will be played separately, and are likely to be pushed for inclusion for the next games, officials said.

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