SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today unveiled the official merchandise of Kashmir Marathon–2025 at the Royal Springs Golf Course. The merchandise – cap, medal, and racing kit specially designed for the participants of the event was displayed at a brief function with media and officers of tourism department present.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister extended an open invitation to all fitness enthusiasts to test their endurance and participate in the 2nd edition of the Kashmir Marathon–2025, scheduled to be held on November 2.
Speaking after the launch, the Chief Minister said that an encouraging number of registrations have already been received for the event, including a significant increase in foreign athlete participation, particularly for the full marathon category.
Highlighting Kashmir’s unique appeal for hosting such sporting events, the Chief Minister said, “Kashmir is the only place in the country that offers such scenic beauty and ideal weather conditions for a marathon.” He added that runners will traverse some of the most iconic landmarks of Srinagar including Jhelum riverfront, Lal Chowk, Dalgate, and the scenic Dal Lake shore in the half marathon category, while full marathon participants will run further towards Hazratbal and Kashmir University.
The Chief Minister noted that runners will compete in temperatures ranging between 6–8°C, a rare advantage compared to other marathon destinations across the country in warm weather. He expressed confidence that the Kashmir Marathon is fast evolving into a premier sporting event and will soon stand alongside renowned marathons like the Delhi Marathon, which has been held for over two decades.
Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Additional Chief Secretary Tourism Ashish Chandra Verma, Director Tourism Kashmir Raja Yaqoob Farooq, MD JKTDC Shreya Singhal, Secretary Royal Springs Golf Course, Haris Ahmed Handoo, Joint Director Tourism Waseem Raja, Additional Secretary Tourism Owais Mushtaq and other senior officers were present on the occasion.