Srinagar, Oct 19: More than 1,800 runners, including 73 international participants, have registered for the third edition of the Kashmir Marathon scheduled for October 25, even as travel advisories and the prevailing situation in the Middle East pose challenges to overseas participation.

According to the registration figures, 1,221 local runners and 513 participants from other parts of the country have signed up for the event. A total of 1,416 runners have opted for the 21-km half marathon, while 391 will participate in the 42-km full marathon.
The registrations include 1,614 male and 193 female participants.
Director Tourism Kashmir Syed Qamar Sajjad said the department aims to establish the marathon as an annual event and develop it into a recognised brand for Kashmir.
He said the marathon’s inclusion in the calendar of the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS) would help strengthen its continuity and enhance Kashmir’s profile as a destination for sporting events.
To encourage local talent, the department has introduced a separate prize category for Jammu and Kashmir domiciles. Sajjad said the initiative would promote fitness and provide local runners greater opportunities to showcase their abilities.
He acknowledged that travel advisories issued by some European countries and the United States, along with the situation in the Middle East, had affected the expected participation of foreign runners.
The marathon will feature two categories—42 km and 21 km—with routes showcasing Kashmir’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, including scenic stretches around Dal Lake, Chinar trees and Mughal gardens.
The Tourism Department is positioning the event as part of its efforts to promote sports tourism and attract participants from across India and abroad.
Sajjad said an inter-departmental committee and a core group were coordinating preparations under the monitoring of the Divisional Commissioner. Police, security forces and other administrative agencies are working together to ensure the smooth conduct of the event.
A dedicated team has also been assigned to assist runners with accommodation and logistics.