Kashmir International Marathon draws 2,000 runners as Srinagar expands sports tourism

Srinagar hosted over 2,000 runners on Sunday for the third edition of the Kashmir International Marathon, demonstrating Jammu and Kashmir's expanding capacity to hold world-class athletic events and draw global visitors.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah flagged off the 42.195-kilometre full marathon at 6:30 a.m. from Lal Chowk, followed by the 21-kilometre half-marathon at 7:45 a.m. The course led runners along historic routes through Srinagar, taking in Polo View, Zero Bridge, the Jhelum riverfront, and the scenic boulevard encircling Dal Lake.

Abdullah praised the marathon as a flagship event that strengthens Jammu and Kashmir's reputation on the international sports tourism stage, while encouraging fitness and healthy living across the Union Territory.

The event drew a broad range of domestic and international competitors, reflecting the region's rising stature.

Kenyan runners claimed the top honors in the full marathon. Emmanuel Sikuku Ndiwa secured the men's title, while Lemensa Harpaa won the women's race. Top performer Omolo commended the course along Dal Lake, calling it one of the most attractive tracks he had run on. Siyom Kumar, a resident of Uttar Pradesh, completed the half-marathon in one hour and 41 minutes.

Organised by the Department of Tourism alongside the J&K Sports Council, the race featured a total prize pool of ₹3.17 crore, with ₹25 lakh awarded to the open category winner. A total of 68 medals were presented across the full and half-marathon disciplines.

Speaking at the awards ceremony, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha noted that Srinagar has established itself alongside major international cities hosting distance races. Sinha credited the Jammu and Kashmir Police and security forces for maintaining a secure and conducive environment over the past six years, which has allowed the Union Territory to regularly host prestigious international gatherings.