The BYD Karachi Marathon kicked off from Nishan-e-Pakistan on Sunday, drawing over 6,500 participants, including women, children, and international runners from 25 countries.
The marathon featured multiple categories: the full marathon (42.1 km), half marathon (21 km), 10 km relay, and a 5 km fun run. Full marathon runners completed two laps from Sea View to Golf Club and back, while half marathon participants ran a single lap.
Israr Khattak emerged victorious in the full marathon, completing 42.1 km in 2 hours, 39 minutes, and 58 seconds. Hamas Minhas secured second place in 2 hours, 48 minutes, and 59 seconds.
In the half marathon, Mohammad Akhtar finished first with a time of 1 hour, 19 minutes, and 29 seconds, followed by Ata-ul-Samad in second and Faizan Faizi in third place.
In the women’s full marathon, Sara Lodhi crossed the finish line in 3 hours, 33 minutes, and 28 seconds, with Alisa Dice taking second. Kokab Sarwar won the women’s half marathon in 1 hour, 53 minutes, and 57 seconds, followed by Rabia Naeem and Zoha Ponawala.
The event highlighted the city’s growing interest in healthy lifestyles and international-standard running competitions. Organizers praised the participation of over 1,000 women runners and runners from 25 countries, reflecting the marathon’s wide appeal.
