The Chief Minister Punjab, Mr. Pervaiz Elahi has announced the holding of the 3rd International Lahore Marathon on Sunday 14th January 2007. This is a high profile international event that has the support of Pakistan Government. The Marathon brings together thousands of people and is watched by millions of viewers worldwide. Established as a mega international event, the 3rd Marathon coincides with ‘Visit Pakistan Year 2007.’

Lahore hosted the first ever International Marathon on Sunday 30th January 2005. The city’s legendary hospitality, rich culture and athletic spirit was beamed to the world as 60 top international marathoners from over 16 countries competed, 17,000 professional & local runners thronged the streets, thousands of citizens cheered the runners and over 100,000 were on hand to applaud the winners in the Punjab Stadium. Prizes worth U$ 100,000 were awarded. The entire marathon was telecast live to the world.

The second Marathon took place on Sunday 29th January 2006 and was larger and even better than the first. Lahoris came out in even larger numbers and a record 26,000 people registered for the races. Athletes from around the world, Pakistani organizations and sports bodies took part including thousands of men, women and children. The Marathon showcased the great city of Lahore and projected Pakistan positively.

All arrangements to successfully hold the event are in full flow and government agencies are pressing ahead to stage the event in a befitting manner. Over 36 top class international athletes are expected as well as athletes from India and Pakistani sports bodies and organizations.