By BIS Correspondent for BIS Mumbai

As part of the celebration of the 80th Independence Day of India, Don Bosco Senior Secondary School, Seawoods West, Navi Mumbai Zone, organised an inspiring 80-Minute Non-Stop Skating Marathon in collaboration with Abhimanyu Academy on August 15, 2026. The event was conceived as a unique way of combining patriotism, physical fitness, discipline, perseverance, teamwork and national unity. The number 80 symbolised the 80th Independence Day and gave the celebration a distinctive character. The marathon brought together young skating enthusiasts, their parents and relatives in an atmosphere of enthusiasm, patriotism and community participation.

 The marathon was ceremonially flagged off by Fr Allwyn Misquitta, SDB, Administrator of Don Bosco, Seawoods. The flag-off marked the beginning of 80 minutes of continuous skating and symbolised the energy, determination and aspirations of India's young generation. A total of 30 enthusiastic participants took part in the marathon. The participants were supported wholeheartedly by their parents and relatives, who encouraged them throughout the event.

 The event was organised with the valuable support and collaboration of Abhimanyu Academy, under the leadership of its Director, Mr. Avinash Bhojne. The Academy's contribution helped provide the necessary sporting guidance and support for the skating marathon. The collaboration reflects the importance of bringing together educational institutions, sports organisations and families for the holistic development of children.

 At the conclusion of the marathon, each of the 30 participants was honoured with a medal and certificate. The recognition was not merely a reward for performance, it was an appreciation of their participation, discipline, courage, endurance and patriotic spirit. Every participant therefore became a symbolic ambassador of the message that every contribution matters in building a strong and united India.

 Don Bosco, Seawoods, places on record its sincere appreciation to Fr Allwyn Misquitta, SDB, Administrator, for flagging off and encouraging the event, Mr. Avinash Bhojne, Director, Abhimanyu Academy, for his valuable collaboration and support, all 30 participants, for their enthusiasm, discipline and determination, parents and relatives, for their encouragement and wholehearted participation and the school community and all those who contributed to making the event meaningful and memorable.

 The 80-Minute Non-Stop Skating Marathon was a fitting and innovative way to celebrate India's 80th Independence Day. The 80 minutes of continuous skating became a powerful symbol of India's journey—moving forward with courage, resilience, unity and hope. The celebration reminded every participant that the freedom we enjoy today carries with it a responsibility to build a better tomorrow through discipline, education, hard work, respect for diversity and love for our nation.