Srinagar, Oct 22 (HS): Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday said people from many corners of the country and from abroad will come to take part in the third edition of the Kashmir Marathon on Sunday, October 25, and urged those who have not yet registered to do so.

“Come, register and participate in this marathon. Winning is not as important as participating. Take it and enjoy this marathon,” he told media on the sidelines of the inauguration of the Kashmir Marathon Expo-2026 at the Polo Ground Sports Complex here.

Omar said all races in the country are beautiful, but none can match the surroundings of the Kashmir Marathon. He also said the prize money is many times higher than in other races.

The chief minister said a prize has been introduced this year for local runners, in both the half marathon and the full marathon, on the demand of local athletes. “It is so that they are promoted,” he said.

He said he took part in the first two editions of the marathon but will not run this year. “But I will definitely come to flag off,” he said, expressing hope that people will participate with full enthusiasm and passion.

According to a post by the Chief Minister’s Office on X, the Expo has been organised as a major pre-event to the marathon. The chief minister inspected stalls showcasing sports gear, local handicrafts and businesses.

The post said he highlighted the growing national and international participation in the event and noted that a dedicated prize category has been introduced for local runners to encourage local talent and promote fitness and marathon running across J&K.

As per registration details reported earlier this week, 1,807 runners, including 73 foreigners, had registered for the marathon, with 1,416 opting for the 21-km half marathon and 391 for the 42-km full marathon.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Zahoor Hussain Bhat