R2 2.0 – Reaching Newer Heights In 2024

Hokato Sema flagging off the run

Encouraged by the success of the first R2 Run, tEA made it a mission to make this initiative an annual event. The second edition of the run took place on 26th October, 2024 at the Indira Gandhi Stadium in Kohima.

Building on last year’s momentum, the goals for the second edition focused on:

  • Increased Participation: Our goal was to exceed the total number of participants from the first edition and vibrate the event to remote geographic locations. This proved to be successful as we witnessed a surge in the runners and winners stemming from districts such as Noklak, Phek and other distant locations adjoining Kohima.
  • Enhanced Awareness: Through extensive outreach and promotion, we planned to amplify the message of climate change mitigation and sustainable farming practices. This was mainly made possible during the mobilization efforts of the run through visitations to educational institutions, commercial establishments, administrative departments, and digital spaces by the team.
  • Fundraising Target: We aimed to surpass last year’s fundraising achievements to support the planting of more saplings under the TfW program.

The Categories for the second edition consisted of:

·       Athletic Professionals (Male & Female)

·       Working Professionals (Male & Female)

·       College and University (Male & Female)

·       14-17 years (Male & Female)

·       11-13 years (Male & Female)

·       10 years and below (Male & Female)

·       Wheelchair Athletes

The event mimicked a similar map as the previous edition with the flag off at the High School Junction via secretariat and ending at the IG Stadium. A pinnacle moment of the event was Mr. Hokato H. Sema, a Para Olympic Medalist of 2024 flagging off the run for 471 runners, underscoring and upholding tEA’s value of participatory approach. The Run also witnessed an interesting feat with the winners from the previous edition bagging the prize again. The oldest and youngest participants were 76 and 4 years old, respectively. This collective participation highlighted the spirit of unity the community possesses, especially in showing up for causes that matter.

The message of generating wealth through local resources was successfully amplified throughout the event. Free distribution of saplings and seeds were also done to encourage tree plantation. Willing participants and spectators took home the seeds / saplings of Oak, Lemon, Jujube, Guava, Orange, Mountain Ebony, and Wild Apple to plant in their respective homes and institutions. The Trees for Wealth Movement (TfW) will help demonstrate not just Nagaland but the whole Northeast as a vibrant economic zone whereby liquid money is generated apart from supporting human life. R2 Run isn’t solely focused on combating climate change but aims to create wealth landscapes for NER India based on the environment.

As this event continues to unfold as an annual affair, we invite individuals of all ages and backgrounds to join us in this vital cause. The involvement of prominent figures and community leaders will be pivotal, alongside new faces eager to support environmental sustainability in a myriad of ways. The Run to Reforest 3.0 promises to be larger, and lay double the impact than its predecessors. As we anticipate its happening in 2025, we look forward to the continued support of our community in making all future events a resounding success and partner up in making significant strides towards a greener, more sustainable future.