Sohra gears up for 4th International Half Marathon; registrations open till September 10

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJuly 7, 2025

The Meghalaya State Olympic Association (MSOA), in collaboration with the Directorate of Sports & Youth Affairs, Government of Meghalaya, and the Meghalaya Athletics Association, has announced the 4th Sohra International Half Marathon, set to take place on September 27, 2025. Recognised by World Athletics and the Athletics Federation of India (AFI), this prestigious event continues to inspire a culture of sportsmanship and fitness across the state.

During a press briefing, Director of Sports & Youth Affairs D.D. Shira, MSOA Working President John F. Kharshiing, and MSOA General Secretary Finely Pariat extended a warm invitation to athletes and sports enthusiasts from Meghalaya and beyond to take part in this landmark event.

D.D. Shira announced, “The 4th Sohra International Half Marathon is scheduled for September 27, 2025. We expect this year’s edition to be our biggest yet. The department is working closely with local leaders and Dorbar Shnongs in Sohra to ensure a smooth and successful event.” He also acknowledged the contributions of the Sohra Sub-Divisional Office, police, and various line departments for their support.

John F. Kharshiing urged people from across the region and the country to register by September 10, 2025. He stressed that the marathon is not just about promoting fitness but also showcasing Meghalaya as a premier tourist destination.

Finely Pariat revealed that last year’s edition attracted over 7,000 runners, and this year, they expect the number to cross 10,000 participants. “This marathon is an excellent platform to highlight Sohra’s beauty while encouraging people to embrace healthy lifestyles. With a total prize pool of Rs 15.50 lakh, it remains one of the most rewarding races in India,” he said.

He added that there is no entry fee for Sohra residents participating in the 5K Run for Fun, while the event’s total budget, covering technical and logistical expenses, stands at Rs 2 crore. “This marathon offers world-class organization at an affordable cost, with one of the highest prize purses in India,” Pariat noted.

The race will feature multiple categories for men and women:

21K Elite Open and Meghalayan categories (for participants above 18 years)

10K Open races (for participants aged 18 to 59)

The popular 5K Run for Fun
A special award will also be given to athletes above 50 years who complete the 21K race, reinforcing the event’s commitment to lifelong fitness.

The route begins at Laitsohpliah, approximately 6 km ahead of the Mawkdok bridge, and ends at the breathtaking Mawsmai (Nohsngithiang Falls) viewpoint. To ensure smooth execution, all roads leading to Sohra from Shillong will remain closed between 6 AM and 10 AM on race day. Free transportation will be arranged for athletes and event staff between Shillong and Sohra, with runners scheduled to leave Shillong at 3 AM to reach the starting point on time.

Registrations are open online and offline. Physical registration counters are available at the MSOA Office, JN Stadium (Shillong), and Sohra Shop near the Petrol Pump at Lad Thanad. Entry fees are Rs 1,000 for 21K, Rs 200 for 10K, and Rs 50 for the 5K Run for Fun. The last date to register is September 10, 2025.

T-shirts and bib numbers for 21K and 10K participants will be distributed on September 25 and 26 at JN Stadium, Polo Grounds. For the 5K Run for Fun, participants from Shillong and nearby areas can collect their kits on September 26, while Sohra residents can collect theirs locally on the same day.