Significance and International Recognition
Over 10 000 people took to the start line. While Kazakhstanis form the core of the running community, interest from abroad has noticeably grown. This year, 821 foreign athletes from 44 countries came to Almaty, making up about 8% of total participants—this is the absolute maximum in the nine-year history of the half marathon.
The race geography spanned nearly all continents. Leading in guest numbers were:
- Russia — 346 people;
- Kyrgyzstan — 146 people;
- Uzbekistan — 81 people.
Runners from China, the USA, the UK, Ukraine, and Belarus also completed the distances. Participation from athletes in Africa, South America, and the Middle East has firmly established Almaty as a key point on the global map of sports tourism.
"Sports tourism is one of the most effective tools for promoting the city on the international stage. It's also important that runners rarely come alone: they are usually accompanied by families and friends, which further boosts tourist flow. For many foreign guests, participating in the race becomes their first introduction to Kazakhstan and a reason to return. According to our research, 79.3% of out-of-town and foreign participants plan to come back to Almaty—this means new trips and increased investment appeal for the city." — Galimzhan Yessenov.
Ecological and Social Responsibility
We continued our commitment to sustainable development by implementing strict ecological standards. This year, the team eliminated unnecessary printed materials and single-use structures. Thanks to our partnership with EcoNetwork, plastic collection points for recycling were set up along the course, and an interactive eco-zone operated in the finish village.The event's social focus was supported by the "Warmth" project: participants could leave unwanted items at special stands, which were later donated to those in need.
Comfort and Inclusivity
Almaty Half Marathon 2026 became one of the most comfortable races in the region. At the finish area, the following were available:
- A mother-and-child room;
- Separate restrooms;
- Specialized facilities for people with disabilities (an innovative practice for mass races in Kazakhstan).
Plans for the Season
The 2026 sports calendar is just heating up. Registration is now open for the next major events:
- Astana Half Marathon — May 31 in the capital.
- The 15th anniversary Almaty Marathon — September 27. This event promises to be the largest in its history.
Read more here.