Walking 10 Kilometers at the Islamabad Marathon 2026

Table of Contents

A Small Decision Made Days Earlier

Sometimes the best plans begin quietly.

A friend mentioned the Islamabad Marathon to me a few days before the event and suggested we join. I had not run in years, but the idea sounded refreshing and fun.

We registered for PKR 4,000 per person and were asked to collect our race bibs from a restaurant in Islamabad. That small task made the event feel suddenly real.

By the time Sunday, 25 January 2026, arrived, the main challenge was waking up early enough to reach the venue between 7:00 and 7:30 a.m.

We reached Baradari, F-9 Park, greeted by cool winter air, early sunlight, and a growing crowd of runners and walkers.

What Is the Islamabad Marathon?

The Islamabad Marathon is one of Pakistan’s growing fitness events, drawing people from across the country and abroad.

The 2026 race included:

Full Marathon – 42 km
Half Marathon – 21 km
10 km Run
5 km Run
Kids’ Races

Nearly 5,000 participants filled the park, turning the morning into a lively festival of movement.

The Morning Felt Like a Celebration

The mood was cheerful and energetic.

People of all ages were there. Some wore professional running gear, others came casually dressed, and a few even wore suits. Many foreign runners added an international touch to the crowd.

Music played while everyone joined warm-up exercises, creating excitement long before the start.

We Walked the 10 km—and Enjoyed Every Step

I quickly accepted one truth:

I had forgotten how to run.

So instead of forcing myself, I walked with my friend—and it turned out to be the best decision.

We talked, laughed, gossiped, admired the scenery, and soaked in the energy around us.

Our route went:

Baradari → Centaurus Mall → back to Baradari

Islamabad looked beautiful in the soft winter light, with wide roads, winter skies, and the Margalla Hills quietly framing the city.

Smooth Organization and Helpful Support

Everything felt well planned.

Medical stations were run by Shifa International Hospital, which was meaningful for me because I once worked there. Meeting old colleagues along the route was a pleasant surprise.

Hydration points were easy to find, offering:

Water
Milo
Gatorade

These thoughtful details kept everyone comfortable and safe.

Two Hours, a Medal Stall, and a Big Smile

We completed our 10 km walk in about two hours—slow, steady, and cheerful.

At the finish line, we were directed to a stall to collect our medals, which felt slightly unusual but added to the informal, festive character of the event.

When the medal finally went around my neck, it made the whole morning feel complete.

We felt proud.

We felt victorious.

Food Stalls and a Content Ending

Food stalls were set up near the finish area, adding to the fair-like mood, though we headed home soon after—tired but very satisfied.

What impressed me most was how disciplined and well-mannered the participants were. Runners and walkers followed instructions and encouraged one another.

It made the entire event more enjoyable.

Final Thoughts

That January Sunday offered fresh air, movement, laughter, and a reminder that sometimes simply showing up is enough.

Would I participate again?

Absolutely.

Next time, perhaps I will jog.