Pakistan successfully hosts first-ever ultra-marathon in Nathia Gali

KARACHI: Pakistan reached another milestone in endurance sports with the successful staging of the country's first-ever 100-kilometre trail ultra-marathon during the fifth edition of the Galiyat Mountain Trail Race in Nathia Gali.

More than 400 runners from Pakistan and abroad took part in the two-day event held on July 18 and 19, with elite athletes, recreational runners, diplomats, women and children participating across four race categories: 100km, 60km, 40km and 20km.

The inaugural 100km ultramarathon marked a landmark moment for trail running in Pakistan. Athar Akhtar and Muzammal Shahzad shared first place in the men's race after crossing the finish line together, while Anum Uzair became the first women's champion in the country's first 100km trail race.

Wiqar Ahmed claimed the men's 60km title, while Atta Samad and Shazia Jamal emerged victorious in the men's and women's 40km races respectively. Israr Khattak won the men's 20km race, while USA's Allegra Aiuto secured the women's title.

The race routes, which started from Nathia Gali Club and Thandiyani Top, passed through the Himalayan foothills, including Mushkpuri and Miranjani peaks, before finishing at Khaira Gali and Jandala.

Organisers said all four race categories were certified by the International Trail Running Association (ITRA) and qualified for the UTMB Index, placing Pakistan on the global trail running map and allowing athletes to earn internationally recognised rankings.

"Despite the challenging weather, the passion of our runners, volunteers, partners and supporters made this event a remarkable success," Margalla Trail Runners founder Javed Ali Noonari said.

"We are proud to introduce Pakistan's first-ever 100km trail ultramarathon, a milestone for endurance sports in the country. Welcoming more than 400 participants from Pakistan and around the world reflects the growing momentum of trail running," he added.

The event also featured a 500-metre "Run for Education", organised by UNICEF Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in collaboration with Margalla Trail Runners and the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government, promoting education and healthy lifestyles among children.

International participants praised the scenic mountain trails and hospitality, while local runners highlighted the event's organisation, including medical support, hydration stations and trained volunteers despite difficult weather conditions.

Now in its fifth edition, the Galiyat Mountain Trail Race has established itself as Pakistan's flagship trail running event, aiming to promote endurance sports, mountain tourism and outdoor recreation while attracting growing international participation.