Charity: “Run To Give” a charity run initiated in Thimphu by the Le Meridien Thimphu and Paro, Riverfront, generated Nu 100,000 yesterday.

The amount generated from the charity was donated to RENEW, the charity partner for this year, later in the afternoon. A total of 81 participants including owners of the property, the staff and in house guests took part in the mini-marathon, five kilometers (km) for men and 3.5 km for women.

The charity run is an annual event of the Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide Inc, held in different locations throughout Asia Pacific to raise funds for various local charities. Le Meridien Thimphu’s general manager Tim Bilfinger said that apart from the monetary contribution that the run has generated, the enthusiasm and good spirit shared by the associates and participants was the highlight of the event.

Tim Bilfinger said that seeing a good number of participants coming together on a Sunday morning for a noble cause was motivating. “These sorts of activities give us an opportunity to strengthen our bond within our workplace,” he said. “More over running is a healthy practice and it’s a fun activity.”

Sonam Phuntsho, 26, of Le Meridien Paro, Riverfront came first in the men’s category. Sonam who works in the housekeeping department said he wasn’t expecting to win. “I wouldn’t even be here if it was not for my manager who informed me about the run until late in the night yesterday,” he said.

Sonam was later resting in the bus ready to return to his workplace. “I’m going to come back here and stay with my wife. That’s the prize I have won,” he said. Sonam has a won complimentary overnight stay for a couple at Le Meridien Thimphu or Le Meridien Paro, Riverfront.

The winner in the women’s category, Karma Zangmo also from the housekeeping department Le Meridien Paro, Riverfront, was all excited with her achievement. “This is my first time taking part in such activities. I never thought I would win,” said the 20-year-old.

The event was organised by the two sister hotels with support from Image Arts, Coca Cola and Thimphu Riders.

Younten Tshedup 

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