Veteran marathon runner Chittaranjan Patra and his son Nikhil Patra from Odisha’s Nabarangpur district have made a remarkable mark at the recently concluded Hyderabad Marathon.
Chittaranjan Patra participated in the Half Marathon category, while his son Nikhil took on the Full Marathon challenge. Both completed their respective races successfully within the stipulated time, earning accolades and admiration from the sports community.
Nikhil Patra credited his father’s motivation and enthusiasm as the driving force behind his achievement. “It was possible only because of my father’s encouragement,” he said.
Chittaranjan Patra’s participation at an advanced age has been hailed as a source of inspiration for athletes across age groups. Sports enthusiasts and officials have praised the duo’s dedication and spirit.
Members of the local sports association, including editor Prahallad Tripathy, vice-chairman M. Bala Krishna Rao, co-editor Manoj Kumar Pattnaik, and cricket editor Ashok Nayak, along with other members and former athletes, extended their heartfelt congratulations to the Patra family.
Their success not only highlights the growing culture of fitness in Odisha but also sets a powerful example of intergenerational passion for sports.