SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha felicitated the winners of Jammu and Kashmir’s first-ever International Marathon, held in Srinagar on Sunday.
Over 1,700 runners participated in the marathon, including athletes from 12 foreign nations. The marathon featured a 42 km Full Marathon and a 21 km Half Marathon. During the ceremony, the LG praised the efforts of the Tourism Department, JK Police, and other stakeholders for making the event a success.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah participated in the 21 km Half Marathon along with other participants. His pace was steady, maintaining an average of 5 minutes 54 seconds per kilometre. “Running past my home, with my family and others cheering me on, was the best part,” he later shared on social media.
In his address, LG Sinha credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for restoring peace and normalcy in JK, which has enabled the hosting of global events like the G20 Summit and International Yoga Day. He said, “This successful mega event has put JK on the world marathon map.”
The LG announced plans for a similar marathon in Jammu, emphasising the potential of such events to boost tourism and bring global runners to the region.
Bollywood actor Suniel Shetty, who was present, expressed confidence that Jammu and Kashmir will soon become a prime destination for international marathons and film productions.
“I feel blessed to have the opportunity to be a part of this historic day. With the kind of hospitality and scenic beauty JK has, I am confident that in the coming days, it will become the number one global spot for international events like Marathons. Efforts will surely be made to bring more films to Jammu Kashmir,” said Shetty.
