The 2nd edition of the Aizawl International Half Marathon (AIHM) 2026 concluded successfully, attracting nearly 3,000 runners, including 16 elite international athletes, and solidifying Mizoram’s reputation as a prominent destination for distance running. The event was inaugurated by General (Dr) Vijay Kumar Singh, the Hon’ble Governor of Mizoram, at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium, showcasing participation from various countries including Kenya, Ethiopia, and the UK, alongside numerous domestic athletes. This year, participant numbers nearly doubled from the previous year’s turnout of around 1,500, reflecting the marathon’s growing credibility and appeal.
The AIHM was organized collaboratively by the Government of Mizoram and Innovations India under the theme “Connecting India, Developing Mizoram, Empowering Sports.” High-ranking officials, including the Chief Minister and the Minister for Sports & Tourism, emphasized the significance of this marathon in promoting Mizoram’s sporting culture and enhancing its capacity to host international events. The Minister highlighted the event’s role in boosting tourism and reinforcing Mizoram’s image as a vibrant and welcoming destination in Northeast India.
The success of the AIHM 2026 was further described by Captain Rahul Bali, the event’s curator, who termed the marathon’s growth a defining milestone, emphasizing its increasing status within the national and international running events. The 21KM Open Male category was won by Kenya’s Kemboi Kevin Kiprono with a time of 1:06:28, while Renu Singh topped the 21KM Open Female category at 1:21:22. The competitive race results indicate the high standards of the marathon.
The picturesque route against Aizawl’s landscape provided runners with both a challenging course and an enjoyable experience, highlighted by local crowds that created a festive atmosphere. Officials noted that the event demonstrated Mizoram’s readiness for larger sporting events and sports tourism, signifying a leap in the state’s sporting infrastructure and organizational capabilities. The marathon’s conclusion marks a significant advancement for Mizoram on India’s sporting landscape, reinforcing themes of ambition, connectivity, and progress from Northeast India.
