The 3rd International Khankandi Ultramarathon has officially begun.
According to Report, a ceremony was held in the city of Gabala before the start of the race.
The event was attended by Sabuhi Abdullayev, Head of the Gabala District Executive Power, as well as members of the public.
Organized jointly by the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Azerbaijan Athletics Federation, and the Baku City Circuit, the ultramarathon started in Gabala. Participants will cover a distance of 192 kilometers before reaching the finish line in Khankandi. A total of 100 athletes from five countries are taking part in the competition.
The main goal of the event is to promote a healthy lifestyle and running, while also showcasing Azerbaijan’s regions through sport. The 192-kilometer Gabala-Khankendi route is expected to provide a demanding test of participants’ endurance and physical fitness.
The ultramarathon consists of four stages: Gabala-Aghdash (55 km); Aghdash-Barda (65 km); Barda-Aghdam (44 km); Aghdam-Khankandi (28 km).
Winners of each stage will receive individual awards, while the overall winners of the ultramarathon will earn the main prizes.
The Khankandi Ultramarathon was first held in 2024 on the Khankandi-Baku route, covering 380 kilometers and featuring 64 athletes from four countries. In 2025, the event switched to the Gabala-Khankandi route and attracted 81 athletes from six countries.
The 2026 edition, the third in the series, is once again being held on the Gabala-Khankandi route.