A 4-kilometre road race organised to mark the 74th International Customs Day was successfully held in Kathmandu , bringing together athletes from security agencies, the customs sector, and related organisations.
The race began at the Customs Department in Tripureshwor and passed through Thapathali, Maitighar, Baneshwor and Tinkune before concluding at the Tribhuvan University Customs Office. The event was organised to promote the significance of International Customs Day through sports and public participation.
Armed Police Force dominates men’s category
In the men’s race, Armed Police Force athlete Rupesh Karki secured first place after completing the course in 15 minutes and 31 seconds. Rajiv Kumar Nepal of the Nepali Army finished second with a time of 18 minutes and 20 seconds, while Army athlete Sanjiv Majhi claimed third place just two seconds behind, clocking 18 minutes and 22 seconds.
Laxmi Khadka wins women’s race
In the women’s category, Nepali Army runner Laxmi Khadka took first place after completing the race in 22 minutes and 29 seconds. Tara Kumari Giri of the Armed Police Force finished second with a time of 23 minutes and 25 seconds, while APF athlete Rita Khadka secured third place, completing the course in 25 minutes and 2 seconds.
Cash prizes to be awarded on International Customs Day
According to Homanath Dhamala, President of the Nepal Customs Agents Association, Kathmandu, the winners will be awarded cash prizes and certificates at a special ceremony to be held on Magh 12 at the Tribhuvan University Customs Office to mark International Customs Day.
The first-place winners will receive Rs 25,000, second-place finishers Rs 15,000, and third-place finishers Rs 10,000.
The race saw the participation of around 150 runners representing the Nepali Army, Armed Police Force, customs employees, customs agents, the Nepal Freight Forwarders Association, the Nepal Customs Agents Association Kathmandu, the Nepal Export Council Thamel, and the Nepal Courier Service Association Kathmandu. Organisers said the event highlighted both the importance of International Customs Day and the message of fitness, coordination, and cooperation among institutions.
