Excelsior Sports Correspondent
JAMMU, May 7: International ultra runner Kartik Joshi from Indore has completed a remarkable milestone in his 4,200-km ‘Kargil to Kanyakumari’ endurance run by reaching Udhampur after covering over 300 km in just five days.
The mega endurance mission began from the Kargil War Memorial and is scheduled to conclude at Kanyakumari. One of the toughest stretches of the journey was crossing the 11,575-feet-high Zoji La pass, where the runner faced extreme challenges including snow, rain, landslides, narrow roads and slippery terrain. In several sections, traffic was restricted to one-way movement due to hazardous conditions.
As per handout issued, the run originally planned to begin on April 28, was delayed due to weather conditions and officially started on May 2 after receiving administrative clearance. Security across the region remained tight due to sensitive conditions, with the Indian Army providing logistical support, escort vehicles and arrangements for food and safety along the route.
Joshi described the experience in the Kashmir Valley as deeply emotional, highlighting the overwhelming hospitality of locals who welcomed him with fruits, saffron tea and traditional Kashmiri “kahwa”. He said the warmth and support from villagers and security forces made him feel at home despite the harsh terrain.
The mission will now proceed towards Jammu on May 8 before heading to Pathankot. The K2K project team has also announced plans to provide free running kits to over 100 grassroots runners as part of its initiative to promote fitness and endurance sports across the country.
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