Dhaka Hosts 1,000+ Runners in Global Unity Marathon

On a Saturday morning in Dhaka, more than a thousand runners laced up their shoes for something bigger than just a race. They were joining 245,000 people across 25 countries in One Run 2026, a synchronized marathon celebrating the power of sport to bring the world together.

The international half marathon drew an inspiring mix of participants to Hatirjheel Lake. Diplomats ran alongside corporate leaders, children ran with athletes, and families of all abilities joined the cause. Russian Embassy employees, workers from the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, and Bangladeshi citizens from every background circled the scenic lake route together.

Runners could choose their challenge: 1 kilometer for beginners, 5K and 10K for regular runners, or the full 21.1 kilometer half marathon for serious athletes. Every single participant received a commemorative prize, with special awards going to the top finishers in each category.

State Minister for Youth and Sports Md Aminul Haque emphasized the broader vision at the awards ceremony. "We would be able to bring about a qualitative change in the country if we can create a sports-friendly environment," he told the crowd gathered at Hatirjheel Amphitheatre.

Barrister Zaima Rahman, daughter of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, celebrated the inclusive nature of the event. She called for more opportunities that connect people across different backgrounds and abilities, noting how rare and valuable these unifying moments are.

Russian Ambassador Alexander Khozin thanked the organizers for creating meaningful connections between nations through sport. The event was a partnership between Russian sports team Hero League and Bangladeshi company GamePlay, marking the second year these two nations have run together.

The Ripple Effect

What started as a regional Russian event in 2017 has grown into a truly global celebration. This year, runners from China to Brazil and Nepal to Tanzania all started their races on the same day, united by the slogan "One Run, One Goal, One World."

The synchronized format creates something special: a Bangladeshi child finishing their first kilometer knows that at that exact moment, someone in Tanzania is crossing their own finish line. The shared experience transcends borders, languages, and cultures, proving that the simple act of putting one foot in front of the other can connect humanity.

Organizers describe their vision as "sports diplomacy," using athletic events to build bridges between communities and nations. In a world that often feels divided, One Run 2026 offered a refreshing reminder that we share more than what separates us.

The Dhaka event brought together an impressive coalition of sponsors and partners, from local businesses to international media outlets, all supporting the message of health, environmental awareness, and global solidarity. When thousands of people choose to spend their Saturday morning running together, they're voting for a more connected world.