3rd International Khankendi Ultramarathon gets underway in Gabala
Gabala, October 8, AZERTAC
The 3rd International Khankendi Ultramarathon, co-organized by the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Azerbaijan Athletics Federation, and Baku City Circuit, has kicked off in Gabala.
Prior to the start of the race, participants visited the monument to National Leader Heydar Aliyev in Gabala and laid flowers there.
The national anthem was then performed, followed by a minute of silence in tribute to the martyrs who gave their lives for the Motherland.
Elnur Mammadov, head of the Sports Department at the Ministry of Youth and Sports, stressed the importance of the ultramarathon, noting that it is gratifying to see sporting events being held in the liberated territories.
Maharram Sultanzade, Secretary General of the Azerbaijan Athletics Federation, highlighted the strong interest in athletics and welcomed the participation of foreign athletes.
A total of 97 athletes from five countries are taking part in the race.
The 192-kilometer Gabala–Khankendi route aims to promote a healthy lifestyle and running while showcasing Azerbaijan’s regions through sport. The ultramarathon features four stages, with stage winners and overall winners receiving awards.
The Khankendi Ultramarathon was first held in 2024 along the Khankendi–Baku route, covering 380 kilometers and attracting 64 athletes from four countries. In 2025, the race was held along the Gabala–Khankendi route, with 81 athletes from six countries taking part.
The third edition of the Khankendi Ultramarathon, held in 2026, will once again follow the Gabala–Khankendi route.
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