SATV 22 March, Kathmandu: The third edition of the Lumbini International Peace Marathon was successfully held in Lumbini, the birth place of Gautam Buddha, with the aim of promoting the region’s Buddhist heritage and fostering global peace. The event, organized in collaboration with the Nepal Olympic Committee, the Chinese Embassy in Nepal, and the Nepal Tourism Board, was a key highlight of the second Lumbini International Peace Festival.

Nepal’s Anish Thapa Magar emerged as the champion in the men’s full marathon, completing the race in 2 hours, 19 minutes and 21seconds. He was closely followed by fellow Nepali runner Sushil Kumar Shahi, who secured second place with a timing of 2 hours, 19 minutes and 25 seconds. Kenya’s Stephen Kasoi claimed the third spot. 

In the women’s half marathon, Nepal’s Santoshi Shrestha clinched first place with a time of 1 hour and 20 seconds. Purna Laxmi Neupane, also from Nepal, finished second, while China’s Cheng secured third place.

The marathon offered substantial cash prizes, with the men’s full marathon winner receiving NPR 350,000, the runner-up earning NPR 250,000 and prizes awarded up to the tenth position. Similarly, the women’s half marathon champion was awarded NPR 150,000. Additionally, winners of the 5 km public race and school race received NPR 12,000 and NPR 10,000 respectively.

The event featured four categories: men’s full marathon, women’s half marathon, 5 km public race, and 5 km school race, attracting participants from various countries.

Jeevan Ram Shrestha, President of the Nepal Olympic Committee, expressed his satisfaction with the event’s success. He emphasized the committee’s commitment to making Lumbini a global hub for peace and tourism, announcing plans to begin preparations for next year’s marathon immediately.

The Lumbini International Peace Marathon continues to grow as a platform to promote peace, cultural heritage, and tourism, drawing attention to the historic significance of Lumbini as the birthplace of Lord Buddha.