Aizawl, Feb 16: The second edition of the Aizawl International Half Marathon witnessed participation from nearly 3,000 runners, including 16 elite international athletes, marking a significant jump in numbers and reinforcing its position as one of the fastest-growing distance races in the region.
The race commenced from Rajiv Gandhi Stadium and drew athletes from Kenya, Ethiopia, Bahrain, the United Kingdom and France, alongside participants from across India and the North East. Participation has nearly doubled compared to last year’s 1,500 entrants, a rise organisers attributed to the event’s growing credibility and appeal. Vijay Kumar Singh flagged off the marathon and remarked on the favourable conditions, noting that the air quality and weather were ideal. He expressed optimism that the race could evolve into an iconic global event.
Organised by the Mizoram government in partnership with Innovations India, the marathon’s expanded scale this year was cited by state officials as evidence of improved capability to host large sporting events. Sports and Tourism Minister Lalnghinglova Hmar said the marathon is growing “bigger and stronger with each edition” and described the international participation as a sign that Mizoram is prepared to host global events. He termed it a major boost for the state’s tourism and sports ecosystem.
In the men’s 21-km open category, Kenya’s Kemboi Kevin Kiprono secured first place with a chip time of 1:06:28. Nafsen Ejeta Balcha finished close behind at 1:06:38, followed by Clinton Kibet Mutai at 1:06:39. In the women’s 21-km open category, Renu Singh claimed the top position with a time of 1:21:22. Tsige Debay Tadese clocked 1:21:35, while Marta Hirpato Yota completed the podium at 1:21:36, reflecting the competitiveness of the field.
Captain Rahul Bali, curator of the event, described the growth as remarkable, pointing to the leap from 1,500 to nearly 3,000 runners and the presence of participants from Europe, the Middle East and Africa. He said the long-term vision is to establish Aizawl as one of India’s most iconic running destinations.
Officials stated that the smooth conduct of the marathon underscores Mizoram’s expanding sports infrastructure and event management capabilities. With rising participation and increasing international representation, the race has emerged as a prominent sporting fixture in the North East, with organisers indicating plans to further scale up future editions.
