Kashmir marathon roars to global stage: CM Omar flags off 3rd edition with 73 foreign runners

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Sunday flagged off the third edition of the Kashmir International Marathon from Polo View, drawing 1,807 registered runners—including 73 foreign athletes from 12 countries—as the Valley firmly puts its scenic tracks and tourism potential on the international sports map.

The full marathon (42.195 km) started at 6:30 am, followed by the half marathon (21 km) at 7:45 am. The routes wound past Dal Lake, Boulevard Road, Nishat Garden, and other iconic stretches, offering runners one of the most picturesque courses in the world.

Organisers from the Department of Tourism, J&K, reported 1,221 local participants, 513 from elsewhere in India, and 73 international runners. Of the total, 1,416 opted for the half marathon and 391 for the full marathon. Spot registrations were expected to push total turnout beyond 2,000.

A dedicated prize category for Jammu and Kashmir runners was introduced this year to boost local talent. The overall prize pool stands at ₹3.17 crore, with the open-category winner set to take home ₹25 lakh. The Chief Minister also inaugurated the Marathon Expo, which featured 20 stalls showcasing local handicrafts, handlooms, and produce.

Advisor to the Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani, speaking on the sidelines, underlined the event’s growing stature and its role as a tourism ambassador:

"This year, as you have seen, there is more participation than last year. There are better facilities, and we have also improved the arrangements. We are trying to enhance it every year, and this is going to become a prominent name in the marathon circuit. We hope that in the coming years, you will see the Kashmir Marathon counted among the most renowned marathons globally."

He added that the government plans to set up a dedicated organising committee and build stronger national and international promotions to avoid scheduling clashes with other marathons and expand the event’s reach.

The J&K Tourism Department highlighted its push for global recognition, including seeking membership in the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS) and trademarking the "Kashmir Marathon" as an official brand.

Registrations this year exceeded the previous two editions. Participants praised the Valley's tracks as being among the finest in the world, carrying the message of a beautiful and peaceful Kashmir across India and abroad.

The marathon is now a permanent feature of the Tourism Department’s annual calendar, aimed at promoting sports tourism, extending the tourist season, and showcasing Kashmir’s natural beauty and hospitality on a global platform.