Srinagar, October 25 : Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday expressed confidence that the Kashmir Marathon would provide a major platform for local athletes and help runners from Jammu and Kashmir establish themselves at national and international levels.
sAddressing the prize distribution ceremony of the Kashmir Marathon 2026 at Polo View Ground in Srinagar, Sinha said the Union Territory had abundant sporting talent but needed more opportunities to showcase its potential.
He said a future marathon champion could emerge from any district, including Anantnag, Pulwama or Budgam, and expressed hope that the event would help aspiring athletes achieve their ambitions.
Congratulating the winners, the Lieutenant Governor also praised participants who completed the race without winning medals, describing their determination and perseverance as equally worthy of recognition.
Sinha urged successful runners to mentor young athletes and inspire more people to take up sports. He said the marathon had helped bridge the gap between talent and opportunity by providing a platform for emerging runners.
Expressing satisfaction that the Kashmir Marathon had secured a place on the international marathon calendar, he thanked the Tourism Department, police, medical teams, volunteers and other stakeholders for ensuring the successful conduct of the event.
The Lieutenant Governor said the marathon was more than a sporting competition, describing it as an opportunity to promote fitness, healthier lifestyles and tourism in Jammu and Kashmir.
Highlighting the importance of physical activity, he urged people to reduce excessive screen time and incorporate sports and exercise into their daily routines. He said people of all age groups, including those above 50, should remain physically active.
Addressing young people, Sinha said marathon running teaches patience, discipline and determination—qualities that are equally important in life.
“There are no shortcuts in a marathon, and there are no shortcuts in life either,” he said, encouraging young people to face challenges with confidence and turn difficulties into opportunities.
He expressed hope that the Kashmir Marathon would continue attracting participants from across India and abroad, strengthening Jammu and Kashmir’s reputation as a destination for sports and tourism.
