SRINAGAR: More than 2,000 runners, including men and women across age groups, participated in the third edition of the Kashmir Marathon here on Sunday, an event billed as the biggest athletics meet in Jammu and Kashmir.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha felicitated medal winners in various categories, while the event also celebrated the determination and spirit of all participants.
“Today, felicitated medal winners of Kashmir Marathon. I salute every participant whose determination made this event a true celebration of the human spirit,” Sinha said after presenting the prizes.
He said the marathon had opened new opportunities for talented youth in Jammu and Kashmir and strengthened Srinagar’s place on the global running map.
“I am confident that future marathon champions will emerge from the Union Territory and inspire generations to come,” he added.
The route passed through several of Srinagar’s iconic landmarks, including Dal Lake, with participants displaying grit and determination.
Among them was 20-year-old Shivam Kumar, a double upper-limb amputee, who drew admiration from fellow runners. Ten-year-old Maham Khan also attracted attention as she participated in the event for the third consecutive year.
“I have been training for the past four years and my coach has prepared me well. I do not have arms but I have faith in my abilities,” Kumar said after completing the race.
A 70-year-old participant from the Srinagar Athletics Club urged young people to focus on their health and fitness.
“I want to tell all the youngsters who are glued to their phones. Spare an hour and strengthen your body and mind,” he said.
Advisor to Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani said participation had increased this year, along with improvements in facilities and arrangements, though he noted that there was still scope to expand the event.
He said efforts were being made to improve the marathon every year and expressed hope that it would eventually be counted among the renowned marathons.
Director Tourism Kashmir Syed Qamar Sajjad said growing participation reflected increasing public interest in running, which was among the department’s objectives.
He expressed hope that participants would become ambassadors of Jammu and Kashmir tourism.
