Islamabad:The sunny morning of the capital brimmed with energy as runners of all age groups gathered at F-9 Park to participate in the Allied Bank Limited (ABL)’s ‘Marathon for a Greener Tomorrow,’ - a celebration of commitment to the environment, marking the grand finale of the bank’s Plantation Drive Week.
More than 350 participants including young students, seasoned athletes, corporate professionals, and families, stood shoulder to shoulder, united by a shared purpose i.e. advocating for a greener, healthier future. The scenic route, winding through Islamabad’s lush green avenues and tree-lined streets, provided the perfect backdrop, reinforcing the city’s reputation as one of the most picturesque capitals in the world. The race began with a powerful message conveyed through a symbolic planting of saplings by key organizers. As the runners took off, the cheers from enthusiastic spectators and the cool February breeze created an atmosphere of hope and determination. Those who joined the refreshing activity also included celebrities such as senior journalist Suhail Waraich and seasoned lawyer Naeem Bukhari, DIG Security for ICT Police Ali Raza, senior CDA officials and representatives of diplomatic community.
ABL’s Plantation Drive Week, running from February 3rd to 9th, saw the planting of 5,400 saplings across Islamabad and Rawalpindi, in collaboration with local organizations and educational institutes. The initiative aimed to combat deforestation, improve urban green spaces, and instil environmental consciousness in the community. The effort was part of the Bank’s larger mission to combat deforestation, improve urban green cover, and encourage ecological awareness among stakeholders.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Chief Executive Officer ABL Aizid Razzaq Gill, representative expressed pride in the initiative’s impact. He expressed gratitude to all participants. “This initiative reflects our unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship. The overwhelming support from the community strengthens our resolve to drive sustainable change,” he stated.
He said the ‘Marathon for Greener Tomorrow’ symbolizes strength, endurance and unity - the qualities that define success in every aspect of life. “Meanwhile, the plantation drive symbolizes our shared responsibility to protect and preserve the environment for generations to come. The challenges of Climate change and environment degradation remind us that the actions we take today will shape the lives of future generations. The tree we plated under this drive stand as beacon of hope and a symbol of our shared commitment and leaving behind the legacy of sustainability.”
The marathon featured six different categories, including professional runners from Islamabad Running Club (male and female), Challengers (male and female upto 45 years of age) and Masters (male and female above 45 years of age) ensuring inclusivity for all age groups. Among professional runners, 1st, 2nd and 3rd positions in male categories were secured by Muhammad Mubariz, Saad Sikandar, and Muzammil Shahzad respectively and in professional runners’ female category, 1st, 2nd and 3rd positions were secured by Farah Mahwish, Ayesha Marrium, and Zainnab Fatima respectively. In Challengers male category, Asif Ali stood 1st followed by Inam Baig at 2nd and Zafar Kamran at 3rd position. In Challenger female category 1st, 2nd and 3rd positions were earned by Tehmina Bibi, Sana Malik and Romaisa respectively. In Masters male category, ABL Chief Commercial and Retail Banking (CRBG), Abid Anwar won the show followed by Bakht Ali Shah at 2nd and Kashif at 3rd position. In Masters female category, Asma Noureen qualified as winner. The event ended with the prize distribution ceremony among the winners.