Tsewang Rigzin
LEH, Sept 14: The 12th edition of the Ladakh Marathon concluded today with a record-breaking turnout, making it the largest since its inception in 2012. Over 6,600 runners from all Indian States and Union Territories, as well as more than 30 countries, participated in the event. Bhanu Prabha, Administrative Secretary (Youth Services & Sports), UT Ladakh, distributed medals and trophies at the closing ceremony.
Recognised by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS), the Ladakh Marathon remains the highest-certified marathon in the world. The four-day event featured six races across Ladakh’s Himalayan terrain – from the beginner-friendly “Run for Fun” to the grueling 72 km Khardung La Challenge and the 122 km Silk Route Ultra.
The Silk Route Ultra, flagged off on September 11 from Kyagar village in Nubra, covered 122 km to Leh. On September 12, nearly 300 runners braved the 72 km Khardung La Challenge, with over 60 km above 13,000 feet. The final day featured the Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 11.2 km race and 5 km community run.
In the 11-km race, Sonam Stanzin, Furbu Tundup and Punchok Tashi finished top three in the men’s category, while Skarma Idong Lanzes, Padma Lamo, and Stanzin Zompa led the women’s. In the 21-km Half Marathon, Tsetan Namgial, Tsewang Nangdan and Jaffar Ali topped the men’s category and Stanzin Dolkar and Tashi Ladol led the women’s. The 42-km Full Marathon saw Hans Raj, Khadim Hussain and Vipul Kumar take the top three men’s spots, while Stanzin Chondol, Anuschka Schmitt and Diskit Dolma led the women’s.
Founder Chewang Motup Goba emphasized sustainability, noting the ban on single-use plastics since 2019. A new water reservoir and fundraiser for youth sustainability education were launched this year in collaboration with Bisleri.
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