GUWAHATI: Around 3,000 runners took part in the second Aizawl International Half Marathon on February 14, 2026. Sixteen top athletes from countries like Bahrain, Ethiopia, France, Kenya, and the UK competed in the event. The race started at Rajiv Gandhi Stadium, flagged off by Governor Vijay Kumar Singh. This year’s participation doubled from 1,500 in 2025, showing Aizawl’s growing appeal. The Governor noted that "pleasant weather and very good AQI make Aizawl an ideal venue for marathons and other athletic events." Mizoram's Sports and Tourism Minister Lalnghinglova Hmar stated, "The surge in participation reflects Mizoram’s growing sporting culture and capacity to host international-standard events." Kenya’s Kemboi Kevin Kiprono won the 21 km Open Male category with a chip time of 1:06:28, followed closely by Ethiopia’s Nafsen Ejeta Balcha (1:06:38) and Kenyan Clinton Kibet Mutai (1:06:39). In the women’s race, India’s Renu Singh secured first place with 1:21:22, ahead of Tsige Debay Tadese from Ethiopia (1:21:35) and Bahrain’s Marta Hirpato Yota (1:21:36). The marathon route ran through Aizawl’s hills and city landscape, challenging the runners. Locals cheered along the path, adding to the event’s vibrant spirit. The successful event highlights Aizawl’s rise as a major sports and tourism hub in India.