TCS 10K course in top shape: Jones

Bengaluru: Ahead of the TCS World 10K this Sunday, Procam international and the Government of Karnataka on Wednesday outlined the technicalities and logistical measures taken ahead of the annual event.

This year will see a revamp in the race timings with Open 10K kicking off at 5:30 am followed by Majja Run at 6:45 am. The Senior Citizen’s run will start at 7:50 am followed by the Elite women (8am), Champions with Disability Run (8:15 am) and Elite men’s (8:50 am) races.

While the route remains the same as previous year’s, race director Hugh Jones is happy with the condition of the roads.

“It’s the same route that we followed last year. But this time around, the course looks really good. Until a few years ago we had the metro rail construction work going around the course. Last year, though there was no construction activity, the roads were not in top shape. But this year, I am really impressed by the course. The local authorities here have done a wonderful job,” said Jones.

When quizzed about the change in the race timings, which will help clear the traffic restrictions faster, the former London marathon winner remarked: “Yes, it (starting the elite field late into the day)?was a concern. But we believe with a course as good as we have here, it shouldn’t be that big a problem. These guys train throughout the year in testing conditions. If there’s any problem with the sun being out during the (elite)?race, I think that will be countered by the fast course we have in place.”

On the medical side of things, Fortis Hospitals will provide 170 medical staff, 35 beds at the base camp at the finish in addition to three medical stations along the route. Eight ambulances and five medics on bikes will also be on track for the athletes.