JAMMU, Mar 29: Jammu’s first-ever international marathon witnessed a massive turnout on Sunday despite incessant rain, with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah flagging off the event and joining runners in a show of support for fitness and sports.
The marathon began at sunrise from M A Stadium, featuring three categories—Half Marathon (21 km), 10 km Fitness Run, and 5 km Fun Run—with a total prize pool of Rs 1.33 crore.
Over 4,000 participants took part, including more than 1,000 runners from outside Jammu and Kashmir and over 90 international athletes, reflecting the event’s large scale and growing appeal. Legislators, senior officials, and the Chief Minister’s sons, Zahir and Zamir, also participated.
The event combined sports with entertainment, as fitness icon Milind Soman and Ankita Konwar joined the 21-km run, while actress Gul Panag attended the flag-off ceremony. Musical performances by Kamal Khan and Prateek Narula added to the festive atmosphere.
Joint Director Tourism Aijaz Qaiser termed the occasion “historic,” noting that the strong participation despite rain reflects a rising fitness culture in Jammu. He said adequate arrangements were made, with well-surfaced roads and prior information given to runners about the challenging elevation of 450–500 metres.
Highlighting the tourism boost, Qaiser said the large number of participants is expected to benefit the local economy, adding that the marathon aims to become an annual event attracting global runners while showcasing Jammu’s culture and destinations.
International participants, including runners from Kenya, praised the spirit and organisation of the event. One athlete described Jammu as a favourable destination for running, while another commended the arrangements and hospitality despite challenging weather conditions. (Agencies)
