Srinagar, Oct 22: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday urged people to participate in the third edition of the Kashmir Marathon, saying the event was an opportunity to promote running and encourage greater participation in long-distance races in Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking about the upcoming marathon, CM Omar, while speaking to the media on the sidelines of three-day exposition inauguration of the Kashmir Marathon–2026 at Polo View, Srinagar ,said the event had attracted participants from outside the region and abroad, adding that the Kashmir Marathon was gaining recognition on the national and international running calendar.
He said the prize money offered at the event was significantly higher than that of many other races, while a separate prize category had been introduced for local runners in response to their demands.
“The aim is to promote the sport, especially running, whether it is the half marathon or the full marathon,” Omar said.
The Chief Minister said he had participated in the first two editions of the Kashmir Marathon but would not be running in the third edition this year. However, he confirmed that he would attend the event to flag off the race.
Urging people who had not yet registered to join the event, CM Omar said participation was more important than winning.
“Winning is not as important as taking part. Come, register and take part in this marathon. Enjoy it,” he said.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah inaugurated the three-day exposition of the Kashmir Marathon–2026 at Polo View, Srinagar, marking the final leg of preparations for the much-anticipated third edition of the event scheduled to be held on October 25 (Sunday).
The Chief Minister, as per the officials, inspected various stalls and counters set up by government departments, private sports firms and event partners, showcasing a wide range of sports gear, equipment and accessories aimed at promoting fitness, outdoor activities and a vibrant sporting culture. The exposition also features dedicated bib collection centres and on-the-spot registration counters for participants of the upcoming marathon.
The Chief Minister also interacted with stall owners, athletes and volunteers, appreciating their efforts in promoting sports, fitness and outdoor activities in Jammu and Kashmir.
On the occasion, he presented race bibs and merchandise to several runners participating in Sunday’s event, encouraging them to take part with enthusiasm and sporting spirit.
The three-day exposition provides a platform for participants to complete registration formalities, collect their race bibs and explore sports equipment and related products ahead of the marathon.
Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Additional Chief Secretary to the CM Dheeraj Gupta, Secretary Tourism Avny Lavasa, Director Tourism Kashmir Syed Qamar Sajjad, event organisers and other senior officers were present on the occasion.
