Srinagar, Oct 01 (KNO): From toddlers taking their first steps into the world of sports to an 84-year-old participant completing the course, the Kashmir Marathon, Run for Unity, brought together people across generations, drawing applause and appreciation at its closing ceremony in Srinagar on Thursday.
Organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Police, the marathon saw participation from more than 6,000 runners across various categories, turning the event into a celebration of fitness, unity and community spirit.
According to details obtained by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), a two-year-old girl and three-year-old Mohammad Hamza were among the youngest participants and emerged as crowd favourites. Their presence, alongside young athletes and senior citizens, highlighted the marathon’s inclusive spirit and its appeal across age groups.
Participants said the involvement of both children and elderly runners made the event especially memorable.
“The participation of children and senior citizens made the marathon particularly special,” said Zubair Ahmed, a resident of Anantnag.
Zahid Nadeem of Srinagar’s Jawahar Nagar also lauded the initiative, saying such events bring people together while promoting a healthy and active lifestyle.
The elderly participants received special appreciation during the event. A 61-year-old woman was awarded a cash prize of ₹2,500, while 84-year-old Haji Ghulam was applauded for completing the marathon.
The closing ceremony, held at the Police Golf Course on the banks of Dal Lake, was attended by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat, ADGP Armed Police Nitish Kumar, ADGP CID M.K. Sinha, senior civil and police officers, sports personalities and youth—(KNO)