Leh, September 11: Dr. Mushtaq Ahmad Malla from Kulgam, Kashmir, has etched his name in the annals of endurance sports by successfully completing the arduous 72-kilometer Khardung La Challenge, a prominent fixture of the 13th Ladakh Marathon.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that Dr. Malla navigated the extreme altitudes and challenging mountain terrain of Ladakh to cross the finish line of this high-altitude ultra-marathon, officially recognized as one of the world’s most demanding.
The gruelling 72-km race culminated at Khardung La, situated at an elevation of 17,618 feet. Dr. Malla completed the challenging course in 11 hours, 20 minutes, and 9 seconds, demonstrating exceptional physical stamina and mental fortitude in the face of thin air and steep ascents.
A medical doctor by profession, Dr. Malla has cultivated a distinguished career in endurance athletics, with prior participation in significant events such as the Border Ultra in Jaisalmer and the Goa Ultra serving as crucial preparation for the Khardung La Challenge.
His accomplishment is being heralded as a significant milestone for endurance athletics originating from the Kashmir Valley, with Dr. Malla reportedly being the first athlete from the region to successfully complete this particular ultra-marathon.
Following his victory, Dr. Malla dedicated his achievement to the youth of Kashmir, delivering a powerful message advocating for the adoption of fitness, discipline, and a healthy lifestyle. “If my journey inspires even one young person to choose health and discipline, that is true success,” he stated.
The 2026 Khardung La Challenge attracted a total of 477 ultra-runners from across India, who competed in two high-altitude ultra events within the Ladakh Marathon framework this year. These included the 72-km Khardung La Challenge and the even more demanding 122-km Silk Route Ultra. The Ladakh Administration was instrumental in organizing these challenging events.
Dr. Malla’s success adds a noteworthy chapter to the increasing visibility of athletes from Kashmir in the realm of endurance and adventure sports, underscoring the growing talent pool in the region.
The Chenab Times News Desk