RAWALAKOT: For the first time in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), a 21km marathon race was held in this picturesque town on Sunday under the aegis of a group of passionate sports enthusiasts longing to promote their area as one of the most attractive and peaceful tourist and sporting destinations in the region.

The idea for the race was conceived by two local athletes, Dr Ghassan Zahid and Zulkifal Zafar, who in turn received cooperation from the local non-governmental ‘Pearl Welfare Organisation’ and several other supporters, including entrepreneurs and social media influencers.

Located at an altitude of 5,374 feet and known as Pearl Valley due to the abundance of almond blossoms in summer, Rawalakot provided a stunning backdrop for the competition, which organisers aptly named the ‘Pearl Marathon Race’.

The race began at 8am from Eidgah Derek, situated 3km from the centre of Rawalakot. Participants followed a scenic route covering 21km through Chehrra, Chak, Khaigalla and Chotagalla, before returning to the starting point.

Approximately 300 athletes from all over Azad Kashmir and Pakistan got themselves registered at the inaugural event. However, the challenging course saw many dropout, with only 160 participants completing the race.

Arslan Taj, a resident of Dadyal, secured first place, followed by Mohammad Faisal from Mirpur and Mohammad Faraz from Kharek Rawalakot in second and third positions, respectively. The first-placed athlete completed the race in 92 minutes, with the second and third runners arriving within the next five minutes.

A highlight of the event was the participation of Sardar Mohib Shiraz, a 65-year-old retired civil servant, who completed the race in three hours and 40 minutes, earning admiration from spectators and fellow competitors alike.

The closing ceremony featured Sardar Shazib Shabbir Khan, the CEO of Gulf Empire, as the chief guest, who awarded cash prizes and certificates to the top three finishers. All other participants were also given certificates, and members of the organising committee and contributors were presented with trophies as tokens of appreciation for their efforts in making the event a success.

Earlier in the morning, the opening ceremony attracted a large number of spectators, who began arriving at Eidgah Derek from different parts of Rawalakot at 7am. Prominent among the attendees was Prof Dr Mohammad Zakaria Zakir, vice chancellor of the University of Poonch.

Talking to this correspondent, Fatima Anwar, one of the campaigners for the event, said the marathon race had not only showcased the athletic spirit of the participants but also highlighted the Pearl Valley’s potential as a hub for tourism and sports, reinforcing the region’s reputation as a peaceful and attractive destination.

Published in Dawn, July 22nd, 2024