Shillong, June 24: The fifth edition of the Sohra International Half Marathon (SIHM) will be held on September 4, 2026, with organisers expecting another record turnout for one of the Northeast’s premier road-running events.
Participation for this year’s event has been capped at 11,000 runners from across India and abroad.
The event is being organised by the Meghalaya State Olympic Association (MSOA) in association with the Meghalaya Athletics Association (MAA), with support from the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs, Government of Meghalaya. Officials announced that the budget for the marathon has been retained at Rs 3 crore, the same as last year.
Addressing a press conference, organisers said the race route has been remeasured by an internationally certified course measurer and is in the process of being registered with the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS), a global body representing marathon and distance race organisers.
The move is expected to enhance the event’s credibility and attract more elite and international runners.
The marathon will feature five categories: 21K Elite/Open (18 years and above), 21K Meghalayan Open (18 years and above), 10K Meghalayan Open (18 to below 40 years), 10K Meghalayan Open (40 to below 55 years), and 10K Meghalayan Open (55 years and above). A 5K Run for Fun will also be held.
To attract stronger competition, the prize money for the 21K Elite/Open category has been significantly increased. Winners securing first, second and third places will receive Rs 3 lakh, Rs 2 lakh and Rs 1 lakh respectively, while five consolation prizes of Rs 50,000 each will also be awarded.
Registration will open on July 1 and continue until August 15 or until the 11,000-participant limit is reached. Organisers urged runners to register early and adhere to race guidelines.
Besides promoting long-distance running, the event is expected to boost tourism and local economic activity in Sohra, attracting visitors, athletes and sports enthusiasts from across the country and overseas.
