Kolkata, Feb 3 : Thousands of people participated in the fourth Airtel Kolkata Marathon here today.

The marathon was run over a total distance of 42.2 kms. While the 42.2 km run for men was flagged off by Major General A M Verma, the 10.5 km run for ladies was flagged off by Kolkata Police Commissioner Goutam Mohan Chakraborty.

Over 25,000 people participated in the marathon hosted by Bharti Airtel, one of the country's leading mobile service providers.

Airtel Chief Executive Officer Ajay Puri said: "Marathon symbolises energy, enthusiasm, endurance and perseverance. We are running a marathon of telecom and I think it's a great event for Kolkata."

A wide cross-section of people participated in the marathon. They included corporate executives, school children and physically challenged.

"Every year I'm here for the marathon. Marathon events in Bombay and Delhi are such big events. Even we can make it a success here. It is very important for everybody to participate and make it bigger," said Gurpreet Singh, a former hockey player.

The glamour quotient of the run was kept high by the presence of Tollywood stars, including Tapas Pal, June Malia.

"I am here because I love my city. I am glad that so many people have come to participate in the marathon, braving the morning chill. They are here to celebrate the spirit of Kolkata," said Malia.

While Bhairo Singh Loney was the winner in the men's category, Pampa Chandra won the women's marathon. The total prize money of the marathon was Rs 950,000.

ANI