Patnitop Hosts First High-Altitude Ultra Marathon Showcasing Grit and Fitness

The first high-altitude Ultra Marathon in Jammu's Patnitop showcased remarkable endurance and fitness among participants of all ages. With over 750 runners, including international participants, the event featured various categories, emphasizing the importance of physical fitness and community spirit. Senior runners inspired the crowd, while the event also aimed to promote tourism in the region. The scenic beauty and favorable weather added to the experience, making it a memorable occasion for all involved.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 1, 2026, 13:03 IST

Ultra Marathon Highlights

The inaugural high-altitude Ultra Marathon in Jammu province took place in Patnitop, Nathatop, and Sanasar at an elevation of 7,000 feet above sea level on Sunday. This event highlighted the determination of the youth while also showcasing the fitness and discipline of older participants.

Winners of the 50km Ultra Marathon

In the 50 km category for ages 18-35, Akshay Sharma clinched first place with a time of 3:57:32 hours. Among women, Sqn Leader Neha Devi finished first in 4:23:58 hours. In the 35-45 age group, Sonaram Hasse and Pragati Garg completed the race in 3:57:28 hours and 5:16:33 hours, respectively. For the 45-55 age category, Balraj Kaushik and Anuradha finished in 5:16:33 hours and 7:02:21 hours. Ajay Gandotra completed the race in 5:54:49 hours in the 55-65 age group, while OP Sharma and 69-year-old Manmohan finished in 6:15:51 hours and 6:41:30 hours for the 65-plus category. Shamala, 65, the wife of Manmohan, was the only runner in this category.

Event Organization and Participation

The marathon was organized by IKA Sports & Events, in partnership with the Patnitop Development Authority (PDA), the Department of Tourism, and the Patnitop Hoteliers Association, along with the administrations of Udhampur and Ramban. The event was officially started by Kapil Arora, the founder of IKA Sports & Events, at 4:30 AM.

Inspiration from a Senior Runner

"I traveled from Pathankot and received an award for completing a 5 km run in the marathon. At 75 years old, I began running just five years ago and have participated in marathons in Chandigarh, Delhi, and Jabalpur," shared Kulwant Singh Bajwa.

Following this, the CEO of the Patnitop Development Authority, Virender Manyal, flagged off the 22 km, 10 km, and 5 km runs at 6:00 AM, 6:30 AM, and 6:40 AM, respectively, in the presence of Pankaj Sasan, Deputy Director of the Department of Tourism, and Ranjit Singh, Sub-Divisional Magistrate of Chenani.

Promoting Fitness and Tourism

"We are conducting various activities across districts and tehsils under the Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyan. This marathon has been organized for the past six years in Udhampur, featuring four categories this year: 50 km, 21 km, 10 km, and 5 km. Participants from across India joined us. The goal of this event is to encourage physical fitness and discourage addiction, while also boosting tourism in Patnitop," stated Virender Manyal, CEO of PDA.

Positive Feedback and Conclusion

Participants praised the stunning scenery and favorable weather, which were ideal for a marathon, and expressed their satisfaction with the event's organization.

Finally, the chief guest, Deputy Commissioner of Ramban, Mohammed Alyas Khan, welcomed the runners and presented awards to the winners in the presence of other dignitaries.