Colombo: The inaugural Colombo Marathon 2026, organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and the Department of Sports Development, is scheduled to take place in Colombo on September 13, starting at 5.30 a.m. This announcement was made by the Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Sunil Kumara Gamage, during a media briefing at the Government Information Department.

According to News.LK, the marathon aims to establish Colombo as a globally recognized city while simultaneously promoting tourism and sports. The event will feature four categories: a 42-kilometre full marathon, a 21-kilometre half marathon, a 10-kilometre run, and a 5-kilometre Fun Run.

Participation has been robust, with over 5,000 registrants, including 140 international runners from 25 different countries. The Minister highlighted that prizes totaling approximately Rs. 12.8 million will be distributed among the winners.

Support for the event is being provided by Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation and City of Dreams. The Minister also emphasized the requirement for all participants to submit medical fitness reports, noting that there are no age restrictions for participation. Additionally, schoolchildren are encouraged to take part in the 5-kilometre Fun Run.