Srinagar, Oct 25 (KINS): Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Sunday flagged off the third edition of the Kashmir Marathon from Polo Ground, Srinagar, bringing together over 2,000 runners from Jammu and Kashmir, other parts of the country and abroad.
The event celebrated endurance, sporting spirit and Kashmir’s natural beauty, further strengthening the region’s growing reputation as a destination for major sporting events.
Amid the crisp autumn weather, the Chief Minister flagged off the Full Marathon (42.195 km) at 6:30 am, followed by the Half Marathon (21 km) at 7:45 am.
The marathon route covered several iconic landmarks of Srinagar, including Lal Chowk, Polo View, Zero Bridge, Gupkar Road, Boulevard Road, the Jhelum riverfront, Dal Lake, SKICC, Foreshore Road, Kashmir University and the Mughal Gardens.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said the Kashmir Marathon was emerging as a flagship sporting event, strengthening Jammu and Kashmir’s position on the global sports tourism map. He highlighted its role in promoting tourism, encouraging fitness and healthy living, and showcasing the Valley’s scenic beauty to participants from across the world.
The event witnessed growing participation from professional athletes, fitness enthusiasts and long-distance runners. According to the registration figures, 1,807 participants registered online, including 1,221 from Jammu and Kashmir, 513 from other states and 73 international runners representing 12 countries. With spot registrations, total participation crossed the 2,000 mark.
The third edition features a total prize purse of ₹3.17 crore, with the winner in the open category set to receive ₹25 lakh.
Earlier, the Chief Minister inaugurated a three-day Marathon Expo at Polo View on October 22, setting the stage for the main event.
In a significant initiative to promote local sporting talent, a separate prize category has also been introduced for runners from Jammu and Kashmir. The move aims to encourage greater participation among local athletes and provide them with opportunities to compete and excel at a higher level.
Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg, Secretary Tourism Avny Lavasa, Director Tourism Kashmir Syed Qamar Sajjad, and other senior officers and officials were present on the occasion.(KINS)
CM Omar Abdullah flags off 3rd Kashmir Marathon; 25 Lakh for winner, 3.17 Crore total prize purse
