K-P's first-ever marathon marred by poor management amid rains

For the first time in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s history, the provincial government organised a marathon race in provincial capital Peshawar aiming to promote sports in the region.

The race, which covered a distance of 25 kilometrse, began in Chamkani and concluded at the Sports Complex in Hayatabad.

Over 3,000 athletes from across the country participated in the event.

Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur inaugurated the marathon. At the conclusion of the race, the CM announced an increase in the prize money.

The first-place athlete's reward was increased from Rs 300,000 to Rs 400,000, while the second-place prize was raised from Rs 200,000 to Rs 300,000. The third-place winner would now receive Rs 200,000 instead of Rs 100,000.

A total of Rs 1.5 million in prizes was set aside for athletes demonstrating exceptional performance.

Despite these efforts, the event faced major setbacks.

Athletes, who had gathered to compete, scattered due to heavy rain. Many participants left the race mid-way, seeking shelter from the rain.

Rescue 1122 teams were deployed along the BRT route to assist, but several young runners exited the race prematurely, some leaving the course on motorbikes with friends.

A Pak Army athlete secured first place, stating that it was the toughest track he had ever encountered.

Army personnel also claimed second, fourth, and fifth positions.

However, the event was overshadowed by serious mismanagement.

Athletes accused the organisers of poor arrangements, with allegations that some participants used vehicles and others entered the race midway. The organising team seemed unable to address the complaints.

Chaos erupted during the prize distribution ceremony.

Police were called in to secure the stage and begin distributing the awards.

The sports advisor assured the public that cameras had been installed along the entire race route.

He promised action would be taken against those involved in misconduct and announced that such athletes would be banned from future events.