Srinagar, Mar 2 : Jammu and Kashmir played host to half marathon that set the stage for the summer sports in the Valley on March 2.

Twenty-One-kilometre half-marathon started from the up market Polo grounds and concluded at the Old Gate of the Kashmir University at Hazaratbal.

The half marathon was organised under the aegis of the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Development Association and the local sports officials flagged it off.

The organiser of the Marathon, Riyaz Ahmed, said the event marks the onset of summer sports activities in Kashmir.

"Top athletes from the Valley are participating in the half marathon. The main aim of organising this marathon was to announce the arrival of the summer games. After this many other events such as the Santosh Trophy, skating event and volleyball events will be organised," said Riyaz.

"The weather is now good and other games will be starting shortly after this event. This half marathon brings the message of arrival of summer sports and this is just the beginning," said Nisar Ahmed, one of the athelete.

The popular sports played in the valley during summer are Cricket, football and Volleyball.

ANI