Islamabad: Hundreds of professional and amateur runners from across Pakistan participated in the World Athletics-certified second Karachi Marathon on Sunday.
Athletes participated across various categories including full marathon, half marathon, and fun race.
“The Karachi Marathon is an iconic event that transcends an ordinary race. It is a heartfelt tribute to the vibrant City of Lights, a celebration of its unbridled energy, and a testament to the city’s remarkable diversity and resilience,” read a statement issued by the organisers.
International athletes
Not only local athletes but international runners also participated in the race.
Runners from ten countries — the United States, Poland, Japan, and Germany — participated in the event.
The race route captured the attention of runners as many described it as “beautiful, attractive, and serene”.
The 10-kilometre race route stretched from Sea View to the gate of the Golf Club.
Participants of the half-marathon returned from the Golf Club, however, full marathon runners did the loop twice.
A fun race of 5km was part of the mega running event, organised to pull beginners towards running.
Opportunity for international events
Karachi Marathon Race Director Shoaib Nizami highlighted the significance of this year’s event.
“This year, the Karachi Marathon is a label race, meaning participants will be eligible to qualify for other prestigious runs,” Nizami explained.
He added, “For the first time in Pakistan, local runners have the opportunity to qualify for international events like Abbott’s Age Group Championships.”
Nizami said Participation has nearly doubled compared to last year, with a notable increase in the number of women participants.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for our runners, especially those aspiring to compete in renowned races like the Boston Marathon,” he added.
Oldest participant
Feroz Rizvi, a 72-year-old participant completed his first half marathon. “At my age, taking on this challenge is not easy, but I am hopeful,” Rizvi said. “The most important thing is to finish, whether or not I meet the time limit. I’m running for a charity, and that keeps me going.”
Former Karachi mayor Waseem Akhtar said his daughter travelled from the United States for the event.
“The metropolis needs healthy activities. The arrangements will be more organised, if more sponsors support the marathon. Women should come forward and their participation must be welcomed,” Waseem Akhtar said.
The Winners
In the half marathon category, Mohammad Akhtar from Sahiwal secured the first position by covering the distance in one hour twelve minutes and eight second.
The second position was claimed by Mohammad Qasim from Sialkot.
Mumtaz Naimat from Gilgit came first in the half marathon category for women.
