Marathon Spirit

The Kashmir Marathon, held on Sunday, was a major event as it attracted athletes from different countries. More than 1,700 runners, including participants from 12 foreign nations, competed in the 42 km Full Marathon and the 21 km Half Marathon. The participation of international athletes not only raised the marathon’s profile but also proved the ability of J&K to host international events. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership and the restoration of peace for making international events like the G20 Summit, Formula-4 races and International Yoga Day possible in J&K. The marathon also promoted health and fitness as it will encourage more people to take part in running and active lifestyles. The participation of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in the marathon further emphasised the importance of community involvement and leadership in promoting fitness. This has the potential to inspire more residents to adopt healthier habits. The most obvious reasons why people run marathons are the positive effects on health and mental well-being. While some people worry about the harm one can do to their body if unprepared, the overall health benefits tend to significantly outweigh any risks with proper training. The benefits for weight loss and cardiovascular health are well known, but research is continually unveiling new upsides. As the event brought together participants from various backgrounds, it will help in promoting unity and countering negative perceptions on Kashmir. This is a key factor in rebuilding Kashmir’s image as a peaceful and welcoming destination. If the marathon becomes an annual tradition, it could lead to a consistent influx of tourists and athletes. This could position J&K as a top destination for major sporting events and add a new dimension to its tourism sector. Therefore, J&K has the potential to become a hub for international sports tourism. Omar Abdullah’s focus on making the marathon an annual event aligns with broader efforts to improve the socio-economic conditions of the region. The marathon and similar international sporting events have the ability to highlight Kashmir valley’s cultural richness, natural beauty and the hospitality of its people. This can change global perceptions of the region, leading to more tourism and economic development. Bollywood actor Suniel Shetty’s presence at the event was noteworthy as he has always been a role model for fitness enthusiasts. He praised the hospitality and scenic beauty of Kashmir and expressed confidence that J&K could soon become a global destination for marathons and other international events. He also mentioned efforts to bring ‘more films’ to Jammu and Kashmir. Therefore, the Kashmir Marathon is not just a sporting event but a platform to showcase the region’s transformation and its ability to host international events. Events like the marathon can help reshape the way the world views Jammu and Kashmir by attracting tourists, athletes and international media attention. If sustained as an annual tradition, it could play an important role in J&K’s economic growth and especially help in attracting foreign tourists.