Onlykashmir.in News Desk
SRINAGAR, October 22: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today inaugurated the three-day exposition of the Kashmir Marathon 2026 at Polo View, Srinagar, marking the final leg of preparations for the third edition of the event, scheduled for Sunday, October 25.
The Chief Minister inspected 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 hosts bib collection centres and on-the-spot registration counters for participants of the upcoming race.
Addressing the gathering, Omar Abdullah expressed confidence that the marathon would attract runners from across the country and abroad, further strengthening its standing as a major sporting event in the region. “For the third time, the Kashmir Marathon is being organised. On Sunday, people will come to participate not only from different parts of the country but also from abroad. Every race has its own beauty, but the Kashmir Marathon’s surroundings are unmatched. The prize money offered is also significantly higher than that of many other races,” he said.
Highlighting a new initiative to encourage local talent, the Chief Minister said a separate prize category had been introduced for local runners in response to their demands. “This year, keeping in view the demands of our local runners, prizes have been introduced for them as an incentive to participate in both the half marathon and the full marathon,” he said, adding that the move would encourage greater participation among local athletes.
Recalling that he had taken part in the first two editions, he hoped this year’s event would see enthusiastic participation from runners and sports enthusiasts. Urging those yet to register to use the opportunity at the exposition, he said, “For those who have not registered yet, there is still an opportunity to do so here. Come, register and participate in the marathon. Winning is not as important as participating. Take part and enjoy the 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 sporting spirit.
The exposition gives participants a single venue to complete registration formalities, collect their race bibs and explore sports equipment and related products ahead of race day. Mass participation events of this kind have become an important part of the Valley’s effort to project Srinagar as a destination for sport and adventure tourism.
Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, Secretary Tourism Avny Lavasa, Director Tourism Kashmir Syed Qamar Sajjad, event organisers and other senior officers were present on the occasion.
