Srinagar: The fourth edition of the Patnitop Marathon, celebrated as India’s most beautiful hill race, took place on May 26th with great enthusiasm. Sponsored by Skyview by Empyrean and organized by K.A. Sports and Events, the marathon attracted over 500 participants from 48 cities across 14 states and union territories.
Skyview by Empyrean, a leader in sustainable tourism infrastructure, partnered with K.A. Sports and Events, founded by Iron Man triathlete Kapil Arora. With support from the Patnitop Development Authority and Jammu and Kashmir Tourism, the event was a resounding success.
Brigadier Shantanu Kashyap, Sena Medal, Brig Aviation HQ, Northern Command, graced the event as the chief guest. Other notable attendees included Deputy Commissioner Udhampur Ms. Saloni Rai, IAS, Joint Director Tourism Ms. Sunaina Sharma Mehta, JKAS, and CEO Patnitop Development Authority Mr. Devender Singh Bhau, JKAS.
The marathon featured competitive 21.1 km and 10 km races across four age categories: 18-35 years, 35-45 years, 45-55 years, and 55+ years. Additionally, a non-competitive 5 km run was open to participants aged five and above.
Winners of the 21 km half marathon included Ritik Sharma, Vijay Sharma, Hemanshu Prakash, and Ajay Gondotra in their respective age categories. Female winners were Rimpi Devi, Sunita Yadav, and Bhavna Salathia.
In the 10 km race, winners included Brij Bhushan, Abhishek Sharma, Mohammad Yahya Khan, and Anil Katoch among men, while female winners were Mandeep Kour, Prerna Sharma, Manminder Kaur, and Rekha Katoch.
Participants received official t-shirts, finisher medals, post-race breakfast, sports drinks, race day photos, digital certificates, and a complimentary two-way gondola ride.
Owais Altaf Syed, Group Director at FIL Industries Private Limited, said, “Hosting the Patnitop Marathon aligns with our commitment to adventure, luxury, nature, and sustainability. We are delighted to offer participants a unique experience against the backdrop of the beautiful Jammu hills.”
About Skyview by Empyrean:
Skyview by Empyrean, a unit of FIL Industries Private Limited, focuses on sustainable mobility and tourism infrastructure. Founded in July 2019, Skyview offers adventure activities, luxury accommodation, and more in the Sanget-Patnitop valley, Jammu & Kashmir. It has received multiple accolades for its services and commitment to responsible tourism.