Freedom Run for a Free Tibet

On June 12, 1999, a running race was organized by the Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC) in Dharamsala, India (altitude 8000 feet). This race was called the "Freedom Run for a Free Tibet." It began at the McLeod Ganj bus stand and ended at the football field of the Upper Tibetan Children¹s Village. While it was only 3 kilometers, running in the Himalyan Mountains is not very easy; walking in the Himalyan Mountains is sometimes not so easy either. What follows is an interview with Kelsang Phuntsok, the President of the Regional TYC-Dharamsala. This regional chapter of TYC has 2500 members including 800 students.

ITIM: What are you doing today?

Kelsang Phuntsok: We have organized a ³Freedom Run for a Free Tibet.² This is the first time we have organized a running race. Normally we do candlelight vigils and peace marches.

ITIM: Why are you running today?

Kelsang Phuntsok: Since there are alot of other Tibet support activities going on around the world today including the Milarepa Fund concerts, we wanted to show our support and do something different this time. We wanted Tibet supporters to know that we are with you today.

ITIM: How many people do you expect to run and how long will it take?

Kelsang Phuntsok: We expect about 500 people. It will take a half hour.

ITIM: Describe the conditions of the run?

Kelsang Phuntsok: Starting is flat and we run this for about 1 kilometer. Then we go up the hill for 2 kilometers and then we will come to the TCV football ground. At the grounds, we will make one round of the football field

.

ITIM: Is there a football game at TCV?

Kelsang Phuntsok: Right, that¹s why we expect that so many people will come to watch the game. We thought that by ending at the game more people would get awareness about the run.

ITIM: Are you running today and did you train for the run?

Kelsang Phuntsok: Yes, sure I¹m running. No, I didn¹t train.

ITIM: Are you concerned about whether you can make it up the steep hill?

Kelsang Phuntsok: It¹s a short run. Many people should be able to join us and make it.

ITIM: Question to a male runner. Why are you running today?

Answer: I¹m running to support the Tibetans in Tibet who are struggling for a Free Tibet.