Fitness Takes Center Stage at Islamabad’s ‘Run With Us’ Marathon

News Desk

Islamabad: Islamabad turned into a vibrant corridor of endurance and energy on Sunday as the sixth edition of the “Run With Us” Islamabad Marathon brought together elite athletes, recreational runners, families, and children in a citywide celebration of fitness, unity, and healthy living.

The Islamabad Full Marathon concluded with Pakistan’s Sher Khan claiming first place in the men’s full marathon, followed by Israr Khattak in second position and Sajjad Ahmed in third.

In the women’s full marathon, Kazakhstan’s Salatant Sampina secured the top honor, while Italy’s Maria Pia finished second and Pakistan’s Ayesha Mastur Butt claimed third place.

Strong performances were witnessed across all categories. In the men’s half marathon, Muhammad Saleem emerged victorious, with Shahbaz Masih and Muhammad Irfan finishing second and third respectively. 

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Pakistan’s Sadia Maqbool won the women’s half marathon, followed by Elizabeth Heise of the United States in second place and Marta Padilla of Spain in third.

The 10-kilometer men’s race was won by Muhammad Riaz, while Atiqur Rahman and Umar Zaman secured second and third positions. In the women’s 10-kilometer event, Mahnoor Afzal finished first, followed by Ayesha Maryam and Tooba Rani.

In the 5-kilometer men’s race, Muhammad Akhtar claimed the top spot, with Samiullah finishing second and Muhammad Ibrahim Sami third. The women’s 5-kilometer race was won by Irum Shahzadi, while Bisma Batool took second place and Germany’s Sydney finished third.

The marathon featured five race categories — the 5km run, 10km run, Half Marathon (21.1 km), Full Marathon (42.2 km), and Kids’ Fun Run, ensuring inclusivity for runners of all ages and skill levels.

The event is expected to attract over 6,000 participants, including male and female athletes from across Pakistan as well as Asia, Europe, North Africa, the United States, Canada, and other regions of the world.

Organized by Islamabad Run With Us (IRU), an organization founded in 2016 to promote the culture of running in Pakistan, the marathon has grown into one of the country’s most prominent sporting events.

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IRU has successfully organized more than 1,000 running and fitness events nationwide, ranging from grassroots community runs to large-scale national and international races, playing a transformative role in Pakistan’s fitness landscape.

Beyond competition, the marathon was widely praised for promoting healthier lifestyles in today’s digital era. Citizens and participants highlighted the importance of such events in countering sedentary habits caused by excessive screen time and fostering community engagement.

“It was so refreshing to see people of all ages come together for a healthy cause. I am inspired to make fitness a regular part of my life,” said a local female resident. A group of youngsters emphasized that initiatives encouraging outdoor physical activity are increasingly vital amid growing concerns over prolonged screen use.

David Smith, a participant from the United Kingdom, lauded the international spirit of the event, saying, “It is wonderful to see such international collaboration and to be part of an event that promotes wellness in the digital age.”

The event was live-streamed and organized with the support of the Islamabad district administration, Capital Development Authority (CDA), traffic police, and Islamabad Police, ensuring smooth arrangements and a secure environment for all participants.

The Islamabad Marathon continues to stand as more than a race — it is a celebration of health, discipline, unity, and community spirit, reinforcing the message that running is for everyone.