Shillong, September 5: The 5th Sohra International Half Marathon has emerged as one of Meghalaya’s biggest sporting events, drawing a record 11,672 registered runners from nearly 24 states across India and from abroad.
Held on September 4 in Sohra, popularly known as Cherrapunji, the event brought together elite athletes, amateur runners and fitness enthusiasts for races across multiple categories. The 5th Sohra International Half Marathon was organised by the Meghalaya State Olympics Association, in collaboration with the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, Government of Meghalaya, and the Meghalaya Athletics Association. It was recognised by the Athletics Federation of India and certified by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races.
The scale of the event marks a significant rise from its inaugural edition, which had around 750 participants. Organisers said registrations were capped at 11,672 to ensure adequate facilities and logistical support, while demand could otherwise have crossed 20,000.
Verma and Lambkane claim elite titles
The highlight of the event was the elite 21-km race.
Satish Kumar Verma won the men’s elite category with a time of 1:03:04. Kenyan runner Kisilu John Muinde finished second in 1:03:14, while Meghalaya’s Emphius Nongrum took third in 1:03:38.
In the women’s elite category, Tejaswini Narendra Lambkane emerged victorious in 1:15:20. Neeta Patel finished second in 1:19:15, while Meghalaya’s Balasiewdor Pathaw secured third place with a time of 1:20:38.
The event also featured Meghalaya-only 21-km and 10-km categories, along with shorter participation events aimed at encouraging wider community involvement.
Bigger prize money and stronger competition
The elite winners received Rs 3 lakh each, with Rs 2 lakh for the runners-up and Rs 1 lakh for third place. The increased prize purse was part of the organisers’ efforts to attract stronger competition and raise the profile of the race.
Beyond competitive running, the marathon is increasingly being positioned as a vehicle for sports tourism in Meghalaya. The influx of participants and visitors benefits homestays, transport operators, local businesses and farmers, while giving Sohra another identity beyond its famous waterfalls and reputation for heavy rainfall.
With its combination of competitive sport, dramatic landscapes and growing participation, the Sohra International Half Marathon is steadily establishing itself as an important fixture on India’s running calendar and strengthening Meghalaya’s ambitions to emerge as a major sporting destination.
