Sukkur: The city of Sukkur hosted an international marathon that drew around 3,000 athletes, including foreign runners from 10 countries, highlighting a vibrant display of sportsmanship and cultural exchange.
The 42.195-kilometer international marathon started from IBA Public School, with 28 international athletes from countries such as Italy, Canada, Japan, Morocco, and the United Kingdom, alongside thousands of runners from across Pakistan.
The race route passed through Sukkur Barrage, National Highway Theri, Babarlu, and Shah Hussain, before looping back to the finish point. To mark the occasion, a 100-foot-long and 20-foot-wide Pakistani national flag was unfurled at the starting line, adding a patriotic touch to the event.
Ahead of the race, international and national athletes arriving in Sukkur were warmly welcomed with traditional Pakistani cuisine, while cultural performances and folk music created a festive atmosphere, with athletes also seen enjoying and participating in the celebrations.
Morocco’s Alyousuf Abdulmajid emerged victorious in the men’s marathon, completing the race in 2 hours, 22 minutes, and 35 seconds.
Ethiopia’s Methiro Nebro claimed second place with a time of 2:28:48, while Kenya’s Jackson Mainia finished third in 2:31:06.
In the women’s 10-kilometer race, Kenya’s Miony Mutoko secured first position by finishing in 40 minutes and 25 seconds.
Japan’s Yuko Iguchi came in second with a time of 40 minutes and 49 seconds, while Mahnoor from Sukkur claimed third place, completing the distance in 43 minutes.
The marathon winner will be awarded a cash prize of Rs1.5 million, with cash rewards also set to be distributed among the top 20 finishers.
In addition, separate walk events were organized for journalists, senior citizens above 60 years of age, and the general public, ensuring inclusive participation for all segments of society.
