SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah chaired a review meeting to discuss preparations for the Jammu Half Marathon and Ultra Marathon 2025, scheduled to be held later this year.
Speaking at the meeting, CM Omar Abdullah said that the marathon should receive widespread publicity to attract top athletes from across the country. He highlighted the significance of such events in boosting tourism in Jammu and Kashmir and positioning the region as a prime destination for sports and adventure tourism.
“The success of this marathon will not only promote fitness and sports culture but will also bring Jammu into the spotlight as a key tourist destination. Ensure that all necessary preparations are in place and give the event the prominence it deserves,” the Chief Minister directed the officials.
The Jammu Half Marathon 2025 will feature three categories: 21 km Half Marathon, 10 km Fitness Gauge Run, and 5 km Fun Run. Discussions were also held on route planning, prize structure, logo, flag-off timings, T-shirts, branding, sponsorships, and digital outreach.
The meeting emphasised collaboration with key stakeholders, including the trade and travel industry, hotel and hospitality sector, corporate sponsors, government departments, and business establishments, to enhance the event’s scale and impact.
Additionally, officials reviewed the Jammu Ultra Marathon, drawing inspiration from ultra-marathons such as the Khardung La Challenge and Bangalore Ultra Marathon. Discussions covered key aspects, including the route, prize structure, registration process, branding, and promotional activities. The inclusion of an adventure race in the Kashmir Valley was also deliberated upon.
The Chief Minister directed officials to ensure meticulous planning and execution to make the Jammu Half Marathon & Ultra Marathon 2025 a landmark event, promoting Jammu as a premier sports tourism centre.
The meeting was attended by Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary to the CM Dheeraj Gupta, Principal Secretary Finance Santosh D. Vaidya, Divisional Commissioner Jammu Ramesh Kumar, Commissioner Secretary Tourism Yasha Mudgal, Director Tourism Jammu, representatives from BISAG-N, marathon experts, and other concerned officials, both in person and virtually.
