NATHIA GALI: Pakistan recorded a major milestone in endurance sports as Margalla Trail Runners (MTR) successfully organised the 5th Galiyat Mountain Trail Race (GMTR) on July 18 and 19, 2026, featuring the country’s first-ever 100-kilometre trail ultra-marathon.
More than 400 participants, including elite athletes, international runners, diplomats, women, children and adventure enthusiasts from Pakistan and abroad, took part in the event held in Nathia Gali, one of the country’s leading mountain trail running destinations.
The race included four internationally recognised categories: 100km, 60km, 40km and 20km. The routes passed through the scenic Himalayan foothills of the Galiyat region, starting from Nathia Gali Club and Thandiyani Top, and covering well-known peaks including Mushkpuri and Miranjani before finishing at Khaira Gali/Jandala.
All four race categories were officially certified by the International Trail Running Association (ITRA) and qualified for the UTMB® Index. The certification added to Pakistan’s profile as an emerging destination for international trail running, adventure tourism and healthy outdoor activity.
Speaking about the event, Margalla Trail Runners founder Javed Ali Noonari said the race had been a remarkable success despite difficult weather conditions. “Despite the challenging weather, the passion of our runners, volunteers, partners, and supporters made this event a remarkable success. We are proud to introduce Pakistan's first-ever 100KM trail ultra-marathon—a milestone for endurance sports in the country. Welcoming over 400 participants from Pakistan and around the world reflects the growing momentum of trail running, and we remain committed to inspiring a stronger running culture while showcasing Pakistan's incredible mountains,” he said.
A key feature of the weekend was the Run for Education, arranged by UNICEF Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in collaboration with Margalla Trail Runners, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Elementary & Secondary Education Department (KP E&SED), and the Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The 500-metre Kids Fun Run encouraged children to participate for the cause of education, active lifestyles and better futures for every child. The initiative reflected the wider aim of the event to support youth empowerment, community participation and the right of every child to learn, grow and thrive.
The fifth edition of GMTR attracted both professional and recreational runners from within the country and overseas. Women participated strongly across all race categories, while members of the diplomatic community also attended, underlining growing international interest in Pakistan’s adventure sports and mountain tourism.
The first 100km ultra-marathon remained the main highlight of the event. In the men’s category, Athar Akhtar and Muzammal Shahzad jointly secured first position after crossing the finish line together. Anum Uzair became the first women’s champion of Pakistan’s inaugural 100km trail race.
In the other categories, Wiqar Ahmed won the 60km race. Atta Samad and Shazia Jamal claimed the men’s and women’s titles in the 40km category, while Israr Khattak and international athlete Allegra Aiuto won the 20km race.
Sharing his experience, an international participant said: “The trails, breathtaking scenery, and warm hospitality made this an unforgettable race. Pakistan has everything it takes to become a world-class trail running destination, and I'm grateful to have been part of this historic event.”
A Pakistani participant said the race was exceptionally well managed despite the weather. “From well-equipped volunteers and trail guides to hydration stations and medical support, every runner felt looked after throughout the course. It's inspiring to see trail running in Pakistan reaching this standard,” the participant added.
The organisers credited the successful conduct of the event to the District Administration Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, emergency and medical services, law enforcement agencies, volunteers, sponsors, partners and local communities of Galiyat. Their joint efforts helped ensure a safe and memorable race weekend despite the challenging mountain weather.
Now in its fifth year, the Galiyat Mountain Trail Race has become Pakistan’s flagship trail running event, offering athletes the chance to compete on internationally recognised routes while presenting the country’s mountain landscapes to the world.
The introduction of Pakistan’s first 100km ultra-marathon marks another important step for endurance sports, adventure tourism and outdoor recreation in the country.
OD Sports served as the Official Digital & Coverage Partner for the event. It led the digital campaign, creative design, branding, photography, videography and on-trail coverage throughout the race weekend. Despite difficult weather across the mountain trails, the team documented every stage of the race, helping share the achievements and spirit of Pakistan’s growing trail running community with audiences in the country and abroad.
