Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) —  In early November, Samarkand became the center of a sports and cultural event—the Samarkand Marathon 2024, organized by Uzbekistan’s Foundation for the Development of Culture and Art.

This sixth annual charity race attracted over 6,000 participants eager not only to test their endurance but also to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of this ancient city. Runners competed in distances of 2, 5, 10, 21, and 42 kilometers.

This year, organizers offered a wide selection of race options, from youth runs to the full and half marathons. A highlight of the event was the participation of athletes with hearing and visual impairments, for whom a separate course was arranged. The marathon route wound through Samarkand’s iconic landmarks, passing by Registan Square, the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, the Gur-Emir Mausoleum, and other historic sites.

As they ran, participants enjoyed the stunning architecture and felt the pulse of history around them.

Winners and Prize Results:

42.2 km, Men

- Bakhtiyar Utkirov – 2:26:16 

- Evgeniy Fadeev – 2:28:03 

- Turdakunov Zhakylyk – 2:30:57 

42.2 km, Women

- Elena Tolstykh – 2:52:47 

- Darya Kozlovskaya – 2:59:07 

- Ekaterina Tunguskova – 3:00:31 

21.1 km, Men

- Rinas Amadayev – 1:03:43 

- Benard Rotich – 1:07:22 

- Otabek Toshkuvatov – 1:08:38 

21.1 km, Women

- Aynuska Kalil Kyzy – 1:15:59 

- Svetlana Kudelich – 1:18:27 

- Aziza Mirzakbarova – 1:20:39 

The marathon also recognized winners across various age categories and among participants with disabilities.

Winners received cash prizes and souvenirs.

The Samarkand Marathon is not just a sporting event; it’s also an opportunity to support charitable projects in culture and the arts. Proceeds from the event will fund essential initiatives. In addition to the race itself, concerts, exhibitions, and workshops were held as part of the marathon festivities. The organizers created a vibrant, memorable atmosphere that brought athletes and spectators together.

The 2024 Samarkand Marathon became a standout event, allowing participants not only to challenge themselves but also to experience the rich history and culture of Samarkand.