ISLAMABAD: A full marathon of 42.2 km was held on Sunday in Islamabad for the first time in the city’s history. Margalla Road saw marathon runners from all over Pakistan participating in the first event of its kind, said a press release.

The event also saw a very healthy participation from the expat community.

President Dr Arif Alvi and first lady Samina Alvi also gave a surprise as they participated in the marathon without any prior announcement.

The president also completed his 10 km loop and encouraged the organisers to hold such events regularly to promote a healthy environment.

This is the first time a full marathon 42.2 km along with half marathon of 21.1 km, 10 km and five km categories running event was organised in Islamabad. There was also a special category race for children under the age of 14.

Over 1,000 runners participated in the event and many also joined from other cities. The event was organised by Islamabad Run With Us and Adams Foods in collaboration with the district administration.

Hundreds of men and women from all walks of life participated in the event. Cash prizes were awarded to the winners of the first three positions in all the categories by chief guest Senator Faisal Javed.

The senator appreciated the zeal of the participants and applauded the organisers for holding an event to highlight the great sporting potential of Pakistan both nationally and internationally.

“We are excited to be part of this first of its kind activity in Islamabad. This marathon, like our other events, also emphasised a clean and green environment. Through this activity, we wish to promote Pakistan internationally and bring Islamabad on the yearly full marathons calendar that even international athletes will participate in,” said Qasim Naz, the founder of Islamabad Run With Us (IRU).

IRU was created with the intent of creating a running community that supports and encourages a healthy and active lifestyle through group events and participation.

The main aim of the community is to foster and bolster a running culture in Islamabad and its neighbouring cities. IRU tends to cater to runners of all capabilities and make sure that no one is left behind during their group runs. The group was established in September 2016 by a few friends who were also running enthusiasts.

Published in Dawn, January 31st, 2022