On May 2, 2026, the International Issyk-Kul Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Marathon "Run the Silk Road – SCO 2026" took place in the city of Cholpon-Ata, Kyrgyz Republic, on the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul. The event was dedicated to the 25th anniversary of the Organixation.
More than 3,000 professional runners and amateur athletes from SCO member states and other countries took part in the marathon, which was organized by the State Agency for Physical Culture and Sports under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic.
The event was opened by Ulan Mamatkanov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic and attended by ministers from SCO member states, ambassadors and representatives of diplomatic missions accredited in the Kyrgyz Republic, as well as representatives of international sports and public organizations.
On the sidelines SCO Deputy Secretary-General Oleg Kopylov gave an interview to Xinhua News Agency, in which he noted the contribution of member states to the development of the Organization, including, first and foremost, Kyrgyzstan’s current SCO chairmanship. He also emphasized the high importance of sports cooperation in strengthening humanitarian ties, promoting the principles of Olympism, and advocating for a healthy lifestyle across Eurasia.
Since 2012, the SCO Issyk-Kul Marathon has demonstrated a high level of organization and meets international standards for sporting events. The marathon is certified by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS) and World Athletics, which confirms its international prestige, quality of execution, and the possibility of using athletes’ results for qualification for international competitions.
The Issyk-Kul Marathon attracts athletes, running enthusiasts, youth, and representatives of sports federations. The marathon program includes the classic 42 km distance, a half-marathon of 21 km, 10 km and 3 km races, a 10 km Nordic walking competition, as well as a children’s race.