Sports Desk:

Young Bangladeshi runner Utsha Kar has successfully participated in the Generali Geneva Marathon 2025, held in Geneva, Switzerland, for the first time from Bangladesh.

Kar completed the 42.195km international marathon in 5 hours and 54 minutes.

The marathon saw participation from around 25,400 runners representing 138 countries, held over two days on May 10-11.

Among them, Kar stood out as he proudly carried the red and green flag of Bangladesh across the finish line.

“This is not just a personal achievement but a great honour to stand on behalf of Bangladesh. I felt proud to represent my country at every step of the marathon,” said Kar.

Describing the challenges he faced, Kar said, “The Geneva Marathon was the toughest challenge of my life. Running 42.195km through cold winds and hilly terrain was no easy task. But the moment I reached the finish line holding the flag of Bangladesh, every hardship felt truly worth it.”

Marathon culture is still new in Bangladesh, but for Kar, it started in 2023. What began as a way to stay fit and clear his mind quickly turned into a passion. With every half-marathon he ran through Dhaka, running became more than just a routine; it brought him joy, purpose, and a real love for the sport.

Now a postgraduate student at the University of Geneva, he saw the opportunity to take that passion further and he grabbed it.

Known as one of Europe’s most scenic and fastest races, the Generali Geneva Marathon brings together runners from around the world. The weekend-long event features a variety of races, from the full marathon and relay to wheelchair, 10km, 5km, and junior runs, welcoming people of all ages and abilities to share in the spirit of endurance and community.