Itanagar: Arunachal Pradesh’s Namsai has made its mark on the global marathon scene with the successful hosting of the inaugural Golden Pagoda Marathon 2025.
The event, held on February 9th, witnessed participation from over 1,800 runners, showcasing exceptional athleticism from across India and beyond. Kenyan athlete James Kipleting Korir and Ethiopian runner Fulasa Chaltu Gonfa emerged victorious in the men’s and women’s categories respectively.
Chief Minister Pema Khandu congratulated the winners and lauded the event’s significance. In a tweet, he expressed his delight, stating, “Namsai is now on the global marathon map! Congratulations to James Kipleting Korir (Kenya) & Fulasa Chaltu Gonfa (Ethiopia) on clinching the top spots in the men’s & women’s categories in Golden Pagoda Marathon 2025.” He further emphasized the broader impact of such events, stating, “…Kudos to all other Indian athletes for their stellar performances in the event. Such programs go beyond sport, they promote cultural exchange, tourism & fitness spirit.”
The Golden Pagoda Marathon, held against the stunning backdrop of the iconic Golden Pagoda, not only celebrated athletic prowess but also set a new standard as North-East India’s first zero-waste marathon, aligning with environmental sustainability. The successful organization of this event has firmly established Namsai as a prominent destination for international sporting events.
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