International runners can help showcase Valley as tourism destination, says Director Tourism Syed Qamar Sajjad
Srinagar, Oct 25 : The Kashmir International Marathon has recorded 2,136 registrations this year, including 73 foreign participants from 12 countries, as the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department seeks to use the sporting event to promote the Valley as a tourism destination news agency KNS reported.
Director Tourism Kashmir Syed Qamar Sajjad said the number of registrations had surpassed those recorded in the previous two editions, reflecting growing interest in the event.
Sajjad said the department had made efforts to organise the marathon on a larger scale this year and was working to expand its national and international reach.
He said the department had secured membership of the Association of International Marathon and Distance Races (AIMS), a step aimed at strengthening the event’s international standing.
“There is great scope for the development and growth of the marathon within the Union Territory, across the country and internationally,” Sajjad said.
He said the participation of runners from different parts of India and abroad could help showcase Kashmir beyond the region, with participants sharing their experiences of the Valley with wider audiences.
Sajjad also highlighted the marathon route, which offers views of Dal Lake, the Zabarwan Hills and the Mughal gardens, saying the natural surroundings added to the event’s appeal.
The Tourism Department hopes to build on the growing participation in the coming years and position the marathon as an event that combines sporting activity with tourism promotion.
Sajjad said national and international runners could serve as ambassadors for Kashmir tourism by helping highlight the Valley’s natural beauty and visitor appeal. (KNS)
