The upcoming Kashmir Marathon is drawing international interest, with more than 1,800 runners registered so far, including 73 foreign athletes from 12 countries. Organisers expect the total participation to exceed 2,000, Director Tourism Kashmir Sajad Qamar said on Thursday.
The growing response has raised hopes that the sporting event will help showcase Kashmir to a wider international audience and strengthen its position as a tourism destination.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the Marathon Expo, Qamar said 1,807 runners had registered online so far. He added that preparations were nearing completion, with the Tourism Department coordinating with various government departments to ensure the event runs smoothly.
The expo, inaugurated by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, features 20 stalls. On-the-spot registration also began after 4 pm, giving runners who had missed the online registration deadline an opportunity to participate.
Qamar said the marathon was more than a sporting competition, describing such events as an opportunity to present Kashmir before an international audience.
He said the participation of athletes from different countries could help improve perceptions of the Valley abroad and encourage more visitors to explore the Valley.
The event comes as tourism authorities look to use sporting activities and international participation to promote Kashmir beyond its traditional tourism attractions. The presence of overseas runners is expected to add an international dimension to the marathon and provide greater visibility to the Valley as a destination for visitors.
Qamar said the department was working with other agencies to complete the remaining arrangements ahead of the event.
