LAHORE, Jan 4: Women will run in separate groups in the Lahore Marathon-2006. This was said by Punjab Education Minister Imran Masood on Wednesday at a press conference held here to explain the ‘E-Poll IT Education and Online Tutoring’ in connection with the marathon.

The minister said there was no element of vulgarity in the race and those opposing it had political motives. He said the government would provide complete security to the participants in the race especially the foreigners.

He said the government was promoting sports activities at the college level and in non-political institutions. He said the amount generated from the event would be donated to quake victims.

A multinational organization has launched a website — www.top1000kids.com.pk — in connection with the marathon offering e-poll titled “Click Lahore Click” to vote in favour of the event or otherwise.

Its CEO Dr Qaiser Rafiq said some 100,000 people had voted in favour of the race so far. He said the online competition would enhance the mental capability of Pakistani children.

More than 26,000 athletes, including 45 foreigners and 20 women, are expected to take part in the marathon scheduled to be held on Jan 29.