Kathmandu, March 23
The board meeting of the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS), the global governing body of running events, is set to take place in Nepal.
According to AIMS ambassador for Nepal, TS Thakuri, the board meeting will be held in Kathmandu on June 4–5.
This is likely the first time that the board meeting of a global federation of any sporting discipline is being held in Nepal. Previously, only board meetings and congresses of Asian organizations have been hosted in Nepal.
Thakuri, the founder of the Nepalgunj Marathon, stated that continuous lobbying made it possible to host the AIMS board meeting in Nepal. “Having the AIMS board meeting in Nepal is great news for the country’s tourism sector,” he said. “This will help promote Nepal globally and provide an excellent opportunity for Nepalese race organizers to expand their connections with the international running community, understand global marathon trends, and gain valuable insights.”
AIMS works in coordination with World Athletics to regulate and promote road races globally. The organization has a presence in 120 countries and nearly 450 road race organizers as members. It is responsible for measuring and certifying road races worldwide.
AIMS President Paco Borao has expressed gratitude to Nepal for hosting the board meeting. Borao, a resident of Spain, is the race director of the Valencia Marathon, one of the world’s top marathon courses.
Around 18 countries will be represented at the AIMS board meeting in Nepal. The Nepalgunj Marathon has also planned additional special programs during the event, expecting participation from representatives of around 24 countries.
Thakuri emphasized that hosting the meeting is a matter of prestige for Nepal, as it will shape global perceptions of the country. “Therefore, we urge cooperation from the government, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector,” he said. “We hope for positive support and assistance from all sectors. There are opportunities for both individuals and institutions to contribute.”
Additionally, AIMS is planning an interaction program with all Nepalese road race organizers. A main organizing committee will be formed to ensure the effective and successful management of the AIMS board meeting and related programs, incorporating prominent marathon organizers from Nepal.
The AIMS board includes representatives from Europe, the Americas, Japan, Thailand, and several other countries.
