SHILLONG – The fifth Sohra International Half Marathon has grown far beyond a local road race, drawing a record 11,672 registered runners and strengthening Meghalaya’s push to build a wider sporting culture.
Organised by the Meghalaya State Olympics Association (MSOA) with the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs and Meghalaya Athletics Association, the event brought together runners from nearly 24 states along with international participants.
Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Wailadmiki Shylla said the marathon had grown from just 750 runners in its first edition to nearly 12,000 this year. Registrations were capped to maintain adequate facilities and logistical support, with demand otherwise expected to cross 20,000.
Shylla said the event was also benefiting Sohra’s local economy through homestays, transport services and farmers, while helping position the destination as more than a tourism hub known for rain and waterfalls.
India’s ultramarathon runner Sukant Suki Singh, who has completed three 200-mile ultramarathons, also attended the event and praised Meghalaya’s sports facilities and natural setting.
In the headline 21-km elite races, Satish Kumar Verma won the men’s title in 1:03:04, while Tejaswini Narendra Lambkane took the women’s crown in 1:15:20.
Among Meghalaya runners, Wolbetstar Ramsiej won the men’s 21-km race in 1:03:26, while Marqueenless Ramsiej claimed the women’s title in 1:23:55.
The 10-km races also saw strong local participation, with winners across the 18–39, 40–54 and 55-plus age categories.
The elite prize purse was doubled this year, with ₹3 lakh for the winner, ₹2 lakh for second place and ₹1 lakh for third.
The event is recognised by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS).
