SRINAGAR, Oct 20: After finishing the half marathon, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today expressed his vision of seeing Kashmir gain global recognition, joining the ranks of the world’s most prestigious marathons.
“I hope that one day it will be as famous as the world’s most renowned marathons. I want to see Jammu and Kashmir on the global map for such events,” he said, adding that the scenic beauty and unique atmosphere of the J&K could help attract international participants and spectators.
Omar hoped that the Kashmir International Marathon would evolve into a yearly event and earn recognition among the world’s top marathons.
Speaking to the media after finishing the 21-km run at the first-ever international event, the Chief Minister expressed his gratitude and congratulated the participants, especially those who completed the marathon.
“I hope this marathon becomes a yearly event and joins the ranks of renowned marathons held across the world. I also congratulate the people of Srinagar who came out early in the morning to witness the event,” he said.
Regarding his own participation, Omar admitted that he hadn’t expected to complete the half marathon. However, he noted the encouragement he received from fellow runners, which kept him going.
“I didn’t expect to finish. Never in my life had I run more than 12 or 13 kilometers, but running alongside other participants encouraged me to complete it,” he said.
The Chief Minister also thanked the organizers, stakeholders and the people of Srinagar for their support.
“I thank the administration for their excellent management of the event, and I am also grateful to the people of Srinagar, whose presence and encouragement motivated the runners.”
Earlier, around 6 am, Omar Abdullah flagged off the Kashmir Marathon, the first international athletic event of its kind in the valley.
He was joined by Bollywood actor Suniel Shetty, who participated in the flag-off ceremony along with an elite group of participants from different parts of the country and abroad.
