Hundreds pour onto streets as Islamabad holds its first ‘full marathon’

President Arif Alvi and the first lady also participate in the event without prior announcement

ISLAMABAD:

A full marathon of 42.2 kilometres was held in Islamabad for the first time in the federal capital's history on Sunday.

The city's Margalla road saw hundreds of men and women runners from across Pakistan participating in the event of its kind. It also saw considerably healthy participation from the expatriate community.

President Arif Alvi was also part of the event organised by 'Islamabad - Run With Us' (IRU) and Adams Foods in collaboration with the district administration.

President Dr. Arif Alvi and Begum Samina Alvi participated in a 10 Km #IslamabadMarathon.

Through his participation in the marathon, the President gave a message of active participation of youth in sports activities and encouraged the idea of a healthier and positive Pakistan. pic.twitter.com/yRu5QTR3RN

— The President of Pakistan (@PresOfPakistan) January 30, 2022

The marathon had multiple categories, including 42.2km, 21.1km, and a 10km to 5km slot, as well as a special category slot for children under the age of 14.

"We are excited to be part of this first of its kind activity in Islamabad. We have always strived to be an inclusive community with people from all walks of life encouraged to participate at our events," said the Founder of Islamabad Run With Us, Qasim Naz.

PHOTO: EXPRESS

He added that the marathon, like their other events, 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", he added.

Expressing his views, Commercial Director Adam Milk Foods Limited Babar Riaz said: “Adam's Milk Foods is synonymous with a healthy life and is always focused on developing and promoting a healthy lifestyle."

The running part below. Found myself reasonably fit. Admired a 72 year old man from Sialkot who comes every year & completes 42 Km marathon.
A healthy body leads to a stress free life & an intelligent mind. Fitness needs a resolve. I walk 4 Km every day after Fajr with 6 Kg wts. https://t.co/vsrpRvhd36

— Dr. Arif Alvi (@ArifAlvi) January 30, 2022

Also read: Malam Jabba hosts Swat marathon

He further said that "running is one of the healthiest sports and Adam's always looks forward to promoting it. IRU Marathon is one of its kind and Adam's takes pride in becoming the title sponsor of this event."

Cash prizes were awarded to the winners of the first three positions in all the categories by chief guest Senator Faisal Javed.

MashAllah at a very good fitness level, President Dr. @ArifAlvi completed 10KM today and encouraged everyone at #IslamabadMarathon

He said events like this should be regularly done to promote healthy environment for all.

Very well organized event, kudos to team @runwithuspk pic.twitter.com/KqD5fFhwTm

— Imran Ghazali (@ImranGhazaliPK) January 30, 2022

The senator appreciated the zeal of the participants and applauded the organisers for holding an event highlighting the sporting potential of the country, both nationally and internationally.

According to marathon organisers, all Covid-related standard operating procedures (SOPs) were strictly followed at the event.

Senator Faisal Javed. PHOTO: APP