ISLAMABAD: Prize distribution ceremony of First International Karakoram Marathon was held at Serena Hotel Islamabad on Saturday.
Pakistan Air Force (PAF) Chief Air Marshal Mujahid Anwar Khan was the chief guest at the occasion. The chief guest awarded medals and trophies to the winning players.
Addressing at the occasion, the air chief lauded the efforts of the organisers and sponsors for arranging this mega event. He hoped that the international guests would ‘take along nice memories and the flavours of our traditional hospitality’. He also stated that sports not only provide healthy activities but also promote friendly relations among the participating countries. He further said that PAF has envisioned to transform Naltar valley into a hub of winter sports and this scenic place would host such events in the future as well.
In 42 Km Race, Aslam Khan won the gold medal, whereas Ishaq Khan got silver. Bronze medal was awarded to Ubaid Ur Rehman. In the female category, Caroline Drew clinched the gold medal. Heather Lee was awarded silver and Edit Kiss earned the bronze. In the 21 Km race, Shahid Ali won the gold whereas; Adnan Khan and Nazar Shah were awarded silver and bronze medals respectively. In the same category for females, Nadia Rahim, Kokab Sarwar and Sobia Ali won gold, silver and bronze medals.
This one of its kind high-altitude marathon took place at an elevation of 11,300 ft above sea-level. The event was organized by PAF in collaboration with international marathon Travel Company, Z Adventures, and Serena Hotels. A Total of 150 athletes including international runners from Germany, Hungary, Trinidad, Italy, USA, Denmark, Czech Republic, Canada, France UK, Australia, Belgium, Egypt, Tunisia, Faroe Islands, Poland, Qatar, UAE, Argentina, Ireland, Taiwan, China, Scotland and Netherlands participated in the marathon.