Excelsior Sports Correspondent
JAMMU, Feb 7: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah presided over a meeting today to evaluate the arrangements for the Jammu Half Marathon & Ultra Marathon 2025, which is set to occur later this year.
The meeting included Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary to the CM Dheeraj Gupta, Principal Secretary Finance Satosh D. Vaidya, Divisional Commissioner Jammu Ramesh Kumar, Commissioner Secretary Tourism Yasha Mudgal, Director Tourism Jammu, marathon specialists, and other relevant officials, both in attendance and virtually.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah commended the initiative, stressing the need for extensive publicity to draw top athletes from all over the country.
He underscored the importance of such events for enhancing tourism in Jammu & Kashmir and establishing the area as a leading destination for sports and adventure tourism. “The success of this marathon will not only foster a fitness and sports culture but will also elevate Jammu’s profile as a key tourist spot. Ensure all necessary arrangements are in place and afford the event the significance it merits,” the Chief Minister instructed the officials.
At the beginning, Commissioner/ Secretary Tourism Yasha Mudgal provided a comprehensive overview of the planned activities.
She updated the attendees on the proposed routes, event timelines, and logistic considerations for the marathon.
Chief Minister instructed the officials to ensure that the event dates do not coincide with other significant marathons nationwide, allowing for maximal participation from both national and international athletes.
The Jammu Half Marathon 2025 will comprise: a 21 km Half Marathon, a 10 km Fitness Gauge Run, and a 5 km Fun Run. Topics also discussed included route planning, prize distribution, branding, merchandise, sponsorships, and digital outreach.
The meeting focused on collaboration with key stakeholders, including the travel and trade industry, hotel and hospitality sectors, corporate sponsors, government agencies, and business establishments to amplify the event’s scale and influence.
Additionally, the agenda covered the Jammu Ultra Marathon, taking cues from renowned ultra-marathons like the Khardung La Challenge and Bangalore Ultra Marathon. Discussions included critical elements such as the route, prize distribution, registration, branding, and promotional strategies.
The inclusion of an adventure race in the Kashmir valley was also considered.
The Chief Minister urged officials to guarantee precise planning and execution to make the Jammu Half Marathon & Ultra Marathon 2025 a significant event, establishing Jammu as a premier hub for sports tourism.
