SRINAGAR: Omar Abdullah stood at the starting line of Kashmir’s first-ever International Marathon, just days after taking office as Chief Minister. The crisp October air was filled with excitement as over 2,000 athletes, including 59 international runners from 13 countries, prepared to run through the picturesque streets of Srinagar. Abdullah, however, wasn’t a seasoned runner. In fact, he had never run more than 13 kilometres in his life.
With no formal training, no running plan, and a few khajoor and a banana as his only source of energy, he set off with the crowd. As the marathon began, Bollywood actor Suniel Shetty, who was there to flag off the race, remarked, “It’s a paradise for the world, and an event like this shows the world what Kashmir has to offer.”
Abdullah’s pace was steady, maintaining an average of 5 minutes 54 seconds per kilometre. He was propelled by the enthusiasm of the other runners and the cheers of spectators lining the streets. “Running past my home, with my family and others cheering me on, was the best part,” he later shared on social media.
The half marathon, which spanned 21 kilometres, was a personal triumph for Abdullah. Despite his lack of preparation, he completed the race, crossing the finish line with an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. “I’ve never run more than 13 kilometres in my life, and that too only ever once. Today, I just kept going, propelled by the energy around me. No proper training, no nutrition plan—just sheer enthusiasm,” he said with a smile.
For Abdullah, the marathon was more than just a physical feat. It was an opportunity to promote a message of health and well-being for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. “You don’t need drugs to feel good or beat stress. A good run, whether a kilometre or a marathon, is enough to clear the cobwebs and achieve a natural feeling of euphoria. Let’s start running for a drug-free J&K,” he declared in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
The marathon, organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department, was more than just a race—it was a symbol of peace and progress for the region. As the runners passed through the beautiful streets of Srinagar, they showcased a Kashmir ready to welcome the world. “I hope that the Kashmir Marathon becomes one of the top events in the world,” Abdullah said, expressing his hope for the future of the event.
International athletes, like those from Denmark and Africa, praised the scenic routes and the warm hospitality of the Kashmiri people. Sunita, representing a group of elite Indian athletes, highlighted the high prize money and the planned tour of Gulmarg as additional attractions.
As the day drew to a close, the marathon was hailed as a success, and Abdullah’s unplanned but triumphant run became a testament to the spirit of the region. “I wasn’t expecting myself to complete the marathon today,” he confessed to reporters. “But when you see athletes and people running around you, it really acts as a morale booster.”
With this historic marathon behind him, Abdullah looked forward to more such events, envisioning a future where Kashmir would host some of the world’s top marathons, drawing athletes from across the globe to experience the beauty and peace of the valley. “This is just the beginning,” he said with pride, as he reflected on the day’s achievement, “and I’m so damn pleased with myself today.”
The highly anticipated event saw participants from 13 countries and elite athletes from 29 states and Union Territories across India.Officials had confirmed that 59 international athletes are among those competing in this historic event.
