Open mountain race to be held in Pokhara

POKHARA: An open mountain race will be held in Pokhara on September 20 to mark World Tourism Day.

The event aims to promote Pokhara as a national and international tourism destination and to encourage sports tourism.

Organizers said that the race will begin at the World Peace Stupa in Pokhara-22, circle around the Pumdikot Bishal Mahadev statue, and conclude at Kalabang Gharedi Buddha Park in Nigaledanda. The race is being organized by Pokhara Kli, whose chairman Dinnath Baral shared the event details.

The 8-kilometer race will feature six categories: open, ward-level, women’s, under-16, tourism, and veterans (above 40 years). The winner of the open category will receive Rs 50,000 in cash, while the second, third, fourth, and fifth place finishers will receive Rs 30,000, Rs 15,000, Rs 7,000, and Rs 3,000 respectively.

Winners in the ward-level, women’s open, and U-16 categories will each receive Rs 15,000, while runners-up will receive Rs 7,000, along with medals and certificates. Additionally, incentive prizes of Rs 15,000 have been arranged for the top finishers in the veteran and foreign runner categories.

Competition director Om Lama informed that online registration is open and runners can apply through an online form until September 10.

Pokhara-22 Ward Chairman Him Lal Baral said the ward considers the race a local festival and is planning to upgrade the event to a half-marathon in the future.

Pokhara Tourism Council First Vice-Chairman Hari Bahadur Bhujel added that efforts will be made to include as many international runners as possible in the race.

Meanwhile, World Peace Stupa Committee Chairman Ashok Gurung assured that the committee will provide necessary support in managing the event, as the race will start from the Peace Stupa.