DILI, 01 August 2025 (TATOLI) — The 2025 Dili International Marathon is scheduled for 11 October, as announced by the Organizing Committee, led by the Minister of Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture, Nelyo Isaac Sarmento, with support from the Presidential Office and the Government.
The Dili International Marathon is an annual sporting event aimed at promoting health, community engagement, and international tourism. It offers a range of race categories to welcome participants of all levels and serves as a platform for national and global solidarity.
This year’s theme, “Run for Palestine,” invites participants to show solidarity and raise awareness for peace, justice, and global unity.
According to the Office of the President, registration will officially open next month and is open to both local and international athletes. Full event details—including registration dates, prize information, race routes, and logistics—will be published on the official Dili Marathon website.
The marathon will include several race types:
- Full Marathon (42.195 km): For elite and experienced runners.
- Half Marathon (21.0975 km): A popular endurance challenge.
- Fun Run: A shorter, non-competitive race for families, friends, and the wider community.
- Para-Athletics Category: To ensure inclusion for athletes with disabilities.
“Participants will have a unique chance to run through Dili’s scenic routes, experience its rich culture and beautiful coastline, while supporting a cause that promotes humanitarian values,” a statement read.
During a press conference, Minister Nelyo Isaac Sarmento called on aspiring runners—from seasoned marathoners to first-time participants—to start preparing and take part in the event.
Chief of Staff to the President, Jesuína Gomes, confirmed that the initiative has the direct support of the President of the Republic, who has allocated US$100,000 to the event. An additional US$70,000 will be made available by the Ministry of Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture in coordination with the Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs.
Gomes also announced that prizes will be awarded up to the tenth-place finishers, ranging from US$200 to US$8,000.
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