Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], September 25 : The Indian Army will organise the Spiti Marathon 2024, a first-of-its-kind high-altitude marathon, as part of Operation Sadbhavana on September 28-29, 2024. This historic event will take place at the Him Yodha Military Station, Sumdo in Kaza Sub-division, Lahaul-Spiti district, Himachal Pradesh.
The Spiti Marathon aims to highlight the Indian Army's initiatives in remote areas of Himachal Pradesh, promote local culture, and boost tourism in border areas, according to an official statement from the army.
The event will showcase the vibrant villages of Spiti Valley, supporting the Government of India's Vibrant Village Programme. It also encourages physical fitness and mental robustness, fostering stronger bonds with the local population, the statement said.
This prestigious event is being organised through the collaborative efforts of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police, Himachal Pradesh Tourism Department, Himachal Pradesh Police and the Civil administration of Kaza Subdivision. Thus, the marathon will also serve as a medium for better Civil-Military coordination, the statement added.
The event caters prize money for more than 36 awards in four different categories of the Marathon -- 77 Kms Spiti Avenger Challenge: Flag off at 0500h on September 28 from Kaza; 42 km Spiti Full Marathon: Flag off at 0700h on September 28 from Him Yodha Military Station, Sumdo; 21 kms Spiti Half Marathon: Starting from Him Yodha Military Station, Sumdo; 10 km Run for Fun: Flag off at 0700h on September 29 from Sumdo.
"The inaugural event is open for the participation of locals as well as runners from across the country. Online registration for the event is open at the link www.spitimarathon.in," the release said.