Photo : Collected

COX’S BAZAR, Nov 1, 2025 (BSS) - The third Cox’s Bazar Marathon-2025 concluded in a festive atmosphere early Saturday with the participation of about 1,500 runners from across the country. 

The event, themed “Every Step for Wellness and the Ocean,” was organized by the Cox’s Bazar Runners Community in collaboration with the district administration.

The marathon was inaugurated at 4:30 am at Laboni Beach Point, with participants competing in four categories — 42.2 km (Full Marathon), 21.1 km (Half Marathon), 10 km (Mid Run), and 2.5 km (Kids Run).

Runners followed a scenic route stretching from Laboni Beach through Holiday crossing, Thana Road, Khurushkul, Chaufaldandi, Pokkhali, and Khan Beach in Islampur, before looping back to the starting point at Laboni Beach.

In the men’s full marathon (42.2 km), Rahim Uddin secured first place. In the half marathon (21.1 km), Mamun won in the men’s category while Afroz Akhter Rikta took first place among the women. Zakir Hossain and Bipasha clinched top positions in the men’s and women’s 10 km (Mid Run) respectively. 

In the Kids Run (2.5 km), Safin Omayir won in the boys’ category and Wasina Binte Amid finished second in the girls’ category.

S. M. Sadeq, Race Director and member of the organizing committee, said the event was successfully conducted despite various challenges.

“Our main purpose was to promote running, fitness, and wellness,” he said. “We aim to prioritize the mental and physical well-being of the youth of Cox’s Bazar and showcase the region globally through this marathon.”

At the award ceremony held at Laboni Open Mancha, Deputy Commissioner Abdul Mannan attended as the chief guest.

“Cox’s Bazar Marathon is not just a race—it is a symbol of perseverance and enthusiasm,” he said. “This event will inspire the youth and help take Cox’s Bazar forward.”

In his address, Additional Commissioner for Refugee Relief and Repatriation Shamshuddouja Nayan praised the youth-driven initiative.

“It is a matter of pride that the young people of Cox’s Bazar organized this event on their own. Such initiatives will play a big role in boosting the tourism industry,” he added.

Additional District Magistrate Shahidul Alam, Additional Deputy Commissioner Imran Hossain Sajib and female footballer Shaheda Akhter Ripa, among others, were present.