Israr Khattak triumphs in the Second Karachi Marathon

Peshawar’s Israr Khattak clinched victory in the second edition of the Karachi Marathon, finishing the full marathon in a remarkable 2 hours, 29 minutes, and 58 seconds. His performance secured him the top spot in Pakistan’s largest marathon event, which saw participation from hundreds of professional and amateur runners.

The event, accredited by World Athletics, took place on a cool Sunday morning, attracting runners from across Pakistan and abroad. Runners from countries including the United States, Poland, Japan, and Germany joined participants from cities such as Islamabad, Karachi, and Quetta.

In the full marathon, Muhammad Riaz from Bahawalpur secured second place, completing the race in 2 hours, 32 minutes, and 10 seconds. The half marathon saw another exciting finish with Muhammad Akhtar from Sahiwal emerging victorious, clocking in at 1 hour, 12 minutes, and 8 seconds. Muhammad Qasim of Sialkot and Muhammad Usman from Attock followed closely behind in the second and third positions, respectively.

In the women’s half marathon, Mumtaz Naimat of Gilgit claimed victory with a time of 1 hour, 43 minutes, and 0 seconds.

Race Director Shoaib Nizami expressed the significance of the event, noting that it offered local runners a chance to qualify for prestigious international races such as the Boston Marathon. He also highlighted the remarkable increase in female participation, underscoring the growing importance of the event.

The marathon, which included a 42.2-kilometer full marathon, a 21.1-kilometer half marathon, and a 5-kilometer fun race, spanned a scenic route from Sea View to the Golf Club. The full marathon runners covered a distance of 42.2 kilometers, while half marathon participants ran 21.1 kilometers, with a return loop from the Golf Club.

First-time participants such as Mustansar Bandooqwala, a hiker turned runner, and 66-year-old Mazhar Valjee, who praised the event as a beacon of positivity for Karachi, shared their inspiring journeys. Meanwhile, 72-year-old Feroz Rizvi, the oldest runner in the race, completed the half marathon while raising funds for charity.

Former Karachi mayor Waseem Akhtar, whose daughter traveled from Houston to participate, emphasized the need for more healthy activities in the city and encouraged greater female participation. He also advocated for more sponsorship to help improve future event arrangements.

This year’s marathon was not just a race but a symbol of unity, resilience, and the growing enthusiasm for fitness and international recognition in Pakistan.