Bharat in Paris Marathon Celebrates India's Olympic Spirit and Esports Recognition

The 'Bharat in Paris' marathon celebrated India's Olympic movement and the recognition of Esports by the IOC. Flagged off by union minister Giriraj Singh and MP Manoj Tiwary, the event featured 118 athletes, led by Neeraj Chopra, and included an esports tournament with substantial prize pools.

The 'Bharat in Paris' marathon was flagged off on Sunday, celebrating India's Olympic movement alongside the International Olympic Committee's recognition of Esports. Union Minister of Textiles Giriraj Singh and Member of Parliament Manoj Tiwary officiated the event.

A total of 118 athletes, including ace javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra, are set to compete in the Paris Olympics starting July 26. In a significant development, the IOC and Saudi Arabia will host the inaugural Olympic Esports Games next year.

In addition to the marathon, the event featured an esports tournament, with a cumulative prize pool of Rs 2.64 lakh. Out of this, Rs 1.50 lakh was awarded to runners, while esports competitors received Rs 1.14 lakh. Singh highlighted the growing opportunities within digital India, emphasizing the potential for new sports like esports.

(With inputs from agencies.)