The third international marathon race at Lahore will be held on January 14, 2007 in categories of five, 10 and 42 kilometres. Chairman Chief Minister's Task Force on Lahore, Ghaus-e-Akbar, Lahore City District Nazim Mian Amer Mehmood and others announced this at a joint press conference held here on Tuesday.
Over 36 top world class 'marathoners' and thousands of athletes from Pakistan, India and other regional countries are expected to participate in the mega event, having a total cash prizes of 115,000 dollars for all categories.
Ghaus-e-Akbar and Mian Amer said the marathon coincided with "Visit Pakistan Year 2007" and would provide visitors the opportunity to enjoy the city's legendary hospitality, rich culture and sporting spirit. Mian Amer said that over 17,000 professional and local runners participated in Lahore marathon 2005, while in 2006 the figure rose to 26,000.
The number of participants expected to attend the marathon 2007 is much higher than that of past events, as a number of organisations, individuals and sports bodies have been preparing throughout the year for the event.
The Nazim said the Lahore police was making comprehensive security arrangements for the mega event. Necessary arrangements for safety of participants would be ensured, he added.