Two Bangladeshis Complete Antarctic Marathon Historic First

Two Bangladeshi athletes, Ejaj Ahmad and Asif Zahir, have made history by completing the Antarctica Marathon on 9 March, becoming the first citizens from their country to finish a full 42.2-kilometre race on the icy continent. Their achievement marks a remarkable milestone in extreme endurance sports for Bangladesh.

Journey to the Marathon

According to an official press release, Ahmad and Zahir undertook a two-day sea voyage via the Drake Passage to reach the marathon starting point. The passage is considered one of the most perilous maritime routes in the world, known for rough waters and unpredictable weather.

The marathon route itself was challenging: participants ran across volcanic debris, muddy trails, and rocky terrains, encountering glaciers and icy slopes along the way. They also passed by research stations operated by China, Argentina, and Chile, witnessing first-hand the extreme environment of the southernmost continent.

The Antarctica Marathon permits a maximum of 100 participants per edition, making Ahmad and Zahir’s completion all the more noteworthy.

Reflections from the Runners

Ejaj Ahmad, founder of the Bangladesh Youth Leadership Centre (BYLC) and Global Youth Leadership Centre (GYLC), remarked:

“Most people imagine Antarctica as a pristine white landscape. In reality, we ran on mud and exposed rock. With 150 gigatons of ice melting every year, climate change is putting countries like Bangladesh at extreme risk. This marathon reminds me that waiting passively is not an option; the new generation must act.”

Ahmad currently serves as executive chairperson of BYLC and CEO of GYLC, and has dedicated his career to supporting young leaders and promoting initiatives that encourage physical health and societal engagement.

Asif Zahir, deputy managing director of Ananta Group and a former Google product manager, added:

“This marathon reflects core values of Bangladeshi spirit—resilience and defiance of limitations. We wanted to demonstrate that nothing is impossible. Where no Bangladeshi has gone before, courage must lead the way.”

Marathon Overview

Significance

Their participation in the Antarctica Marathon not only showcases Bangladeshis excelling in extreme global sports but also draws attention to climate change impacts, highlighting the vulnerability of low-lying nations.

BYLC and GYLC, which also organise sporting and leadership initiatives locally, emphasise physical well-being, resilience, and youth empowerment, and Ahmad and Zahir’s accomplishment serves as an inspiring symbol of ambition, courage, and international representation.

Their journey underlines that determination, preparation, and perseverance can enable individuals to conquer both extreme landscapes and metaphorical boundaries, inspiring future generations to pursue extraordinary challenges.

Sources: Bangladesh Youth Leadership Centre, Global Youth Leadership Centre, Antarctic Marathon Official Press Release, Participant Statements