SWAT: A large number of tourists and athletes thronged the zigzag hilly track of Malam Jabba in Swat on Sunday to witness the second Swat Marathon.

The marathon is held annually in Malam Jabba to promote adventure tourism in the scenic Swat valley. It was organised jointly by Malam Jabba Ski Resort and Pearl Continental Hotel. More than 300 athletes of different ages participated in the race. The forest conservator, Ejaz Khan, was chief guest at the event.

Last year, more than 200 athletes participated in the event. This year, more than 300 athletes from all over the world participated in the event. A large number of spectators from across the country also turned up.

The organisers said that the marathon was meant to promote winter sports and adventure tourism in the country. The marathon was held in different categories including five, 10, 25, and 42 kilometres. The athletes showed exceptional spirit and enthusiasm to make the uphill task possible.

The chief guest at the award distribution ceremony said that he was glad to see the efforts of the organisers and spirit of the local and national athletes. “Swat valley has great potential for all kinds of tourism. It offers every adventure to national and international tourists,” he said. He urged everyone to keep the valley green and clean.

Israr Khattak clinched first, Fida Hussain second and Shahid Abbas grabbed third position in the 42 kilometres race. Sher Khan stood first, Wahid Mahmood second and Zohaib Shahid third in the 21 kilometres race. Similarly, Sohail Amir grabbed first, Amir Abbas second and Mubraiz Bukhari third position in the 10 kilometres category. In the category of five kilometres, Faizan Ali clinched first, Tayyab Gohar second and Mohammad Hamid got third position.

Other attractions of the event were live performance by Hunza Folk Band, which paid a tribute to Ali Sadpara followed by several instrumental tracks, mash ups in Urdu and Brushiski that enthralled the audience.

Published in Dawn, March 8th, 2021