LEH: The Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, today flagged off the ‘Run for Fun’ Marathon, a curtain-raiser to the 12th edition of the Ladakh Marathon, from near NDS Ground, Leh.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation of nearly 1,650 runners, including school students and persons with disabilities.
On the occasion, Secretary Youth Services and Sports Bhanu Prabha, Administrative Secretaries Sanjit Rodrigues and Mr. Bhupesh Chaudhary, and the President of ALTOA were also present.
The Hon’ble Lt Governor highlighted that the Ladakh Marathon has grown into one of India’s most prestigious long-distance races and a globally recognised endurance event, attracting over 6,000 runners from more than 30 countries this year.
He said the event not only boosts tourism but also creates livelihood opportunities for local communities, while showcasing Ladakh’s unique culture and breathtaking high-altitude terrain to the world.
Speaking about its distinctiveness, Kavinder Gupta noted that AIMS certification, iconic races such as the Khardung La Challenge and Silk Route Ultra, and the warmth of Ladakhi hospitality have made the marathon truly special. He commended the organisers for their professionalism and for ensuring both safety and a memorable experience for participants.
The Lt Governor expressed special appreciation for the participation of differently-abled runners, calling their determination and spirit “a true inspiration for society.” He said their involvement reflects the inclusive character of the Ladakh Marathon and sends out a powerful message of courage, equality, and perseverance.
Appealing to the youth, Kavinder Gupta underlined the importance of sports and physical activities, stating that sports build fitness, discipline, and opportunities for growth while fostering national pride.
