By Sachit Subba • Off-Field • Apr 06, 2026 12:44 PM • 76 views
The 14th Kantipur Half Marathon is set for this Saturday with the theme "Run for Nepal." Organised by Kantipur Media Group and sponsored by Global IME Bank, the event is now a top distance-running competition, drawing both elite and emerging athletes. This year, organisers announced at a Monday press conference that they will use electronic chip-timing technology to accurately track each runner’s time over the 21.1-kilometre course.
There are four race categories: the half-marathon, a 5km Corporate Run, a 7km College Run, and a 3km Wheelchair Race. The top male and female half-marathon finishers will each receive Rs 150,000, with cash prizes awarded through sixth place. The wheelchair race winners will receive Rs 35,000. Extreme Energy Drink, the official partner, will also send College Run winners to an IPL cricket match, including round-trip airfare.
The race starts at Kantipur headquarters in Tinkune, passes through Koteshwor, Lokanthli, and Thimi, and turns around at Jagate in Bhaktapur. All finishers this year will receive medals to mark their achievement. The event is supported by the Nepal Athletics Association, with celebration partners KFC and Pizza Hut, medical support from Frontline Hospital, and food provided by Food Management and Trading Company Limited.
At the press briefing, KMG CEO Mahesh Swar thanked supporters, saying their commitment has helped the marathon grow. RK Bista, Secretary of the Nepal Athletics Association, said the race plays a key role in developing Nepali athletes and announced that it will serve as a qualifier for the upcoming national competitions. Global IME Bank CEO Surendra Raj Regmi confirmed the bank’s ongoing commitment to social responsibility. With the event approaching, many expect a close contest between departmental teams and top independent athletes like Santoshi Shrestha, making for an exciting day for both runners and fans.
