The third edition of the Kashmir Marathon witnessed participation by over 2,000 athletes from across the country and 12 other nations, with chief minister Omar Abdullah flagging off the race from Polo View in the city centre on Sunday.
He expressed confidence that future marathon champions would emerge from J&K. Lieutenant governor Manoj Sinha, who presided over the award ceremony, addressed the gathering and presented 68 awards, 34 each in the full and half marathon categories.
“The event will strengthen Jammu and Kashmir’s position as a global sports tourism destination, boosting tourism and inspiring a culture of fitness and healthy living across the region,” Omar said in a statement. “The tourism department, J&K Sports Council and private institutions must provide trainers for local winners, as well as support, mentor and guide them so that, building upon this marathon, they can reach national and international tournaments,” he said.
A total of 2,150 runners are participating in this event, the highest in three editions, including 76 foreign athletes,” he said. A day-long golf tournament witnessed participation from over 100 golfers at the Royal Springs Golf Course, Srinagar, on Saturday. The Labaika Invitational Golf Cup 2026 focused on local golfers and emerging talent to provide emerging players with opportunities to showcase their abilities, an official said.
“I believe within the next few years, it will gain international prominence as well.
Nasir Aslam Wani, adviser to the chief minister, said participation this year was higher compared to the earlier two editions.
