Karachi gears up for global ‘One Run’ half-marathon

KARACHI: Karachi is set to host the ‘One Run International Half-Marathon’ on May 23, 2026, with more than 1,500 participants expected to take part in the city’s largest running event of the year.

According to the details, runners of all ages and abilities can choose from four distances – 1 km, 5 km, 10 km, and the full 21.1 km half-marathon – along the Abdul Sattar Edhi Road (Seaview), starting and finishing at Emaar Ocean Front.

The One Run offers a unique opportunity for families, friends, and fitness enthusiasts to embrace an active lifestyle and set personal milestones within a global community.

On the same day, over 245,000 runners worldwide from countries including Russia, China, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, India, UAE, Qatar, Venezuela, Serbia, Tanzania, Malaysia, Thailand, and more will take part, making it a truly global celebration of running.

Shoaib Nizami, the event organizer, highlighted the importance of marathons, saying that Karachi’s running culture was growing rapidly, with an increasing number of people from all walks of life participating every year.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

He added that while the city was widely known for its food, Karachiites should also take pride in their active lifestyle and involvement in international events.

“Karachi’s running culture is growing rapidly, with more people from all walks of life taking part every year. While the city is famous for its food, Karachiites should also take pride in their active lifestyle and participation in international events. This is another opportunity to showcase the healthy, dynamic side of our city to the world,” he said.

It’s worth noting that the One Run concept was first introduced in 2017 in Russia, with simultaneous events held in 10 cities.

The event rapidly expanded and, by 2020, made history with a synchronized start across all Russian regions, setting two Guinness World Records for uniting the most cities in a half-marathon.

By 2023, One Run had gone global, with five countries — including China, Kyrgyzstan, Armenia, Tajikistan, and Belarus — joining the movement.

Now, in 2026, with Karachi once again on the map, Pakistan continues to stride forward on the global fitness calendar.

READ: WATCH: Shahid Afridi conferred with Hilal-e-Imtiaz award

Karachi gears up for global half marathon ‘One Run’ on May 24

Karachi is set to lace up once again as it hosts the ‘One Run’ event for the second year in a row on Saturday, May 24, joining thousands of runners worldwide in what is billed as the world’s largest half marathon.

Over 200,000 participants from across the globe will take part in this synchronised event, including more than 2,000 runners from Karachi, making it a significant moment in Pakistan’s growing fitness and running culture.

In Karachi, the race will start from the Emaar Sales Center in DHA, offering runners a scenic and breezy route along the city’s picturesque coastline.

With its well-maintained tracks and refreshing sea views, the Emaar route is expected to deliver a memorable experience for both amateurs and seasoned athletes.

The event caters to all fitness levels, featuring race categories of 1 km, 5 km, 10 km, and the flagship 21.1 km half marathon, ensuring inclusivity for families, beginners, and elite runners alike.

Shoaib Nizami, CEO of Sports in Pakistan, expressed pride in the continued collaboration with One Run and the opportunity it presents for international exposure.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

“We’re thrilled to partner with One Run for the second time, further solidifying Pakistan’s presence on the global sports stage,” Nizami said.

“This event continues to showcase our sporting talent, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality to the world.”

It’s worth noting that the One Run concept was first introduced in 2017 in Russia, simultaneously held in 10 cities.

The event rapidly expanded and, by 2020, made history with a synchronised start across all Russian regions, setting two Guinness World Records for uniting the most cities in a half marathon.

By 2023, One Run had gone global, with five countries — including China, Kyrgyzstan, Armenia, Tajikistan, and Belarus — joining the movement.

Now, in 2024, with Karachi once again on the map, Pakistan continues to stride forward on the global fitness calendar.

READ: Mohammad Haris reflects on Pakistan’s challenges in modern cricket