POKHARA, AUGUST 20
More than 4,000 runners are expected to participate in the ‘Right to Protein Run 2026’ to be held in Pokhara on September 19, organisers said.
The Nepal Feed Industries Association (NFIA), with the US Soybean Export Council (USSEC) as the main sponsor and Nepal Athletics Association as the technical partner, will organise the event to promote protein awareness, nutrition, physical fitness and healthy lifestyles.
The event will feature eight categories, including men’s and women’s half-marathons, open races, school-level youth races and wheelchair races. The 21-km half-marathon will offer Rs 150,000 to the winner in both the men’s and women’s categories.
A total of Rs 1.28 million will be distributed as prize money to the top five finishers in each category. Including 25 per cent tax covered by the organisers, the total prize package will amount to Rs 1.6 million.
The race will start and finish at Basundhara Park in Lakeside and pass through Hallan Chowk, Khahare, Sedi, Khapaudi and Pame before reaching Lauruk and returning along the same route.
Organisers said the event, which has been held since 2019, aims to take the discussion on nutrition beyond conferences and into communities. The 2026 edition will promote awareness of accessible protein sources including eggs, chicken, fish, milk, soy, tofu, paneer, lentils and pulses.
Water and hydration stations, first aid and health services will be arranged along the route, with ambulances and emergency medical services also available.
NFIA said the event would also seek to promote Pokhara as a destination for sports and health tourism while providing opportunities for emerging runners and supporting public awareness of the relationship between nutrition, physical activity and long-term health.