C T Online Desk: Special Correspondent : The Scenic hills of Bhatiary in Chattogram came alive on January 3 with the successful hosting of the Bhatiary International Marathon 2026, a vibrant and internationally recognized sporting event. Jointly organized by the Bangladesh Military Academy (BMA) and Run Bangladesh, the marathon was AIMS-certified and attracted runners from home and abroad.
Among the participants was Ornab Das, a student of Chandigarh University, who shared his memorable experience of running through the challenging hill route of Bhatiary. Having previously competed in 10-kilometre races, Ornab opted for the 5-kilometre category this year, considering the steep and winding terrain of the course.
Despite the demanding route, he successfully completed the race ahead of the scheduled time, embracing the natural beauty throughout the run. The misty morning, green hills, and serene surroundings made the experience both physically challenging and mentally refreshing.
Ornab mentioned that due to studying abroad, he does not often get the opportunity to participate in sporting events in Bangladesh. Taking part in such a well-organized international marathon, therefore, was a source of great joy and motivation for him.
On the race day, participants departed as early as 3:30 AM and were transported to the starting point with the support of the Bangladesh Army. The overall management, discipline, security, and cooperation provided by the army were highly appreciated by the runners.
The marathon featured three categories—21.1 km Half Marathon, 10 km, and 5 km. The combination of hilly roads, early morning fog, and breathtaking landscapes made the event stand out from conventional road races.
Reflecting on his experience, Ornab stated that the marathon was not merely a test of physical endurance, but also a powerful exercise in mental strength and self-confidence. The encouragement from spectators and the surrounding natural environment continuously inspired the runners.
He further emphasized that such international-standard sporting events play a vital role in promoting sports culture and health awareness among the youth, while also presenting a positive image of Bangladesh on the global stage.
The successful execution of the Bhatiary International Marathon once again demonstrated Bangladesh’s growing capability to host international sporting events. Organizers and participants alike expressed hope that similar initiatives in the future would continue to contribute to national sports development and public health improvement.
