British and Iranian runners take top honors as Kurdish athletes dominate 12 km race
The streets of the Kurdistan Region’s capital came alive on Friday, October 31, 2025, as thousands of runners from across the world joined the 12th Erbil International Marathon, an event that has become a symbol of peace, unity, and endurance.
The marathon featured three levels of competition — the 42-kilometer full marathon, 12-kilometer race, and 2-kilometer family fun run — drawing professional athletes, local competitors, and families alike. Erbil Governor Omid Khoshnaw officially opened the event, which once again underscored the city’s growing reputation as Iraq’s sporting capital.
British and Iranian athletes claim marathon crowns
In the men’s 42-kilometer marathon, Henry Hart of Britain seized first place with a time of two hours and thirty minutes, showcasing remarkable stamina and consistency over the demanding four-lap course around Erbil’s 60-meter ring road.
Mohammed Jaafar from Eastern Kurdistan finished second, followed by Jory Kinzy from the Netherlands in third place. British athletes Jones and Will Marshall, along with Iran’s Hamid Mahdavi and Iraq’s Abdullah Samri, rounded out the top finishers.
Among local competitors, Revin Mahmood, one of Kurdistan’s most respected long-distance runners, finished sixth overall and received a special award as the highest-ranking Kurdish athlete in the full marathon.
In the women’s division, Mehrzad Najjar of Iran triumphed in the 42-kilometer race, demonstrating exceptional endurance and determination to claim the title.
Kurdish runners dominate 12-kilometer race
The 12-kilometer race highlighted the strength and unity of Kurdish athletes. Yahya Ibrahim from Kalar crossed the finish line first in the men’s division, followed by Hassan Azizi of Iran and Aqil Yabri of Iraq. Sasan Rozhan and Ayman Naaman secured fourth and fifth places, respectively.
In the women’s 12-kilometer category, Kurdish athletes delivered an outstanding performance. Bushra Rauf from Meriwan (Eastern Kurdistan) claimed first place, while Rana Barakat from Akre took second. Amal Khdr from Kirkuk finished third, completing an all-Kurdish podium that drew cheers from the crowd.
More than a race: a message of peace and coexistence
Established in 2011, the Erbil International Marathon continues to promote peace, coexistence, and environmental awareness across communities. Organizers said this year’s theme focused on keeping Erbil clean and green, using sport to inspire civic responsibility and unity.
Runners traced a route that showcased the city’s blend of heritage and modernity, passing landmarks such as the ancient Erbil Citadel and Sami Abdulrahman Park.
As medals were awarded and streets reopened, the 12th Erbil International Marathon left behind more than victory statistics — it reaffirmed Erbil’s identity as a city of peace, resilience, and international friendship.