SRINAGAR, OCT 20: Kashmir is preparing to host the third edition of the Kashmir Marathon on October 25, with a total of 1,807 runners, including 73 international participants, registering for the event as the Tourism Department seeks to strengthen the region’s profile as a destination for international sporting competitions and sports tourism.
The upcoming marathon will feature two competitive categories, a 42-kilometre full marathon and a 21-kilometre half marathon, bringing together domestic, local and international runners for an endurance event designed to combine sporting excellence with the scenic beauty and cultural heritage of Kashmir.
According to details available, the registrations include 513 domestic runners, 1,221 local participants and 73 foreign runners. Of the total registered participants, 1,416 have opted for the half marathon, while 391 will compete in the full marathon. The gender-wise breakup shows 1,614 male and 193 female participants, reflecting participation from runners across different backgrounds.
The Tourism Department is seeking to establish the Kashmir Marathon as a regular annual sporting event and develop it into a recognised brand associated with the region. An official said the department intends to make the marathon a permanent feature of Kashmir’s sporting calendar, helping attract participants and visitors from across India and abroad.
The official further stated that the event’s inclusion in the calendar of the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS) would help strengthen its international standing and support efforts to establish it as a consistent annual event. Such recognition is expected to contribute to the marathon’s visibility among the wider running community and enhance Kashmir’s prospects of hosting major endurance competitions.
In a move aimed at encouraging local sporting talent, the organisers have introduced a separate prize category for Jammu and Kashmir domiciles. The initiative is intended to provide local runners with greater opportunities to compete, showcase their abilities and gain recognition alongside participants from outside the region.
The official noted that international marathons frequently attract strong participation from African runners, particularly athletes from Kenya. The separate category for J&K domiciles is intended to ensure that local athletes receive greater visibility and encouragement, while promoting a culture of fitness and long-distance running among young people.
However, the official acknowledged that the participation of international runners had been affected by travel advisories issued by some European countries and the United States, as well as the prevailing situation in the Middle East. Despite these challenges, the event has attracted 73 foreign participants, alongside a substantial contingent of domestic and local runners.
The marathon routes have been designed to showcase Kashmir’s natural landscape and cultural attractions. Participants will run through scenic stretches featuring Dal Lake, iconic Chinar trees and Mughal gardens, providing an opportunity to experience the region’s distinctive environment while competing in one of its major sporting events.
Beyond the competition itself, the Tourism Department views the marathon as an opportunity to promote sports tourism, increase visitor engagement and expand Kashmir’s appeal among athletes, running enthusiasts and international travellers. The event is also expected to highlight the potential of combining sporting activities with the region’s established tourism attractions.
Preparations for the October 25 event are being coordinated through an inter-departmental committee and a core group functioning under the monitoring of the Divisional Commissioner. Police, security forces and various administrative departments are working together to coordinate arrangements and facilitate the smooth conduct of the marathon.
A dedicated team has also been assigned to assist participating runners with accommodation and logistical requirements, ensuring that athletes travelling from different parts of the country and abroad receive necessary support during the event.
With 1,807 registrations across the two race categories, the third edition of the Kashmir Marathon is set to bring together competitive running, tourism promotion and local sporting participation.
The Tourism Department’s broader objective is to transform the Kashmir Marathon into an established annual international sporting event, promote local athletic talent and position Kashmir more prominently on India’s and the international sports tourism map.
