Two Bangladeshi athletes, Ejaj Ahmad and Asif Zahir, have made history by completing the Antarctica Marathon on 9 March, becoming the first from their country to finish a full 42.2-kilometre race on the frozen southernmost continent. Their achievement marks a significant milestone in extreme endurance sports and highlights Bangladesh on the global sporting map.
Journey to the Southern Continent
Ahmad and Zahir began their expedition with a two-day voyage across the Drake Passage, widely regarded as one of the world’s most perilous maritime routes, notorious for high seas, sudden storms, and freezing temperatures. Simply reaching the marathon starting point demanded exceptional resilience and determination.
The marathon route presented a unique set of challenges. Participants traversed volcanic debris, muddy trails, and jagged rocky terrain, navigating glaciers and icy slopes under unpredictable weather. Along the route, they passed research stations maintained by China, Argentina, and Chile, observing the stark, rapidly changing Antarctic environment firsthand. The Antarctica Marathon permits a maximum of 100 participants, underscoring the exclusivity and difficulty of completing this extreme race.
Reflections from the Runners
Ejaj Ahmad, founder of the Bangladesh Youth Leadership Centre (BYLC) and Global Youth Leadership Centre (GYLC), shared his thoughts on the experience:
“Most people imagine Antarctica as a pristine white continent, but we ran over mud and exposed rocks. With 150 gigatons of ice melting every year, climate change places countries like Bangladesh at extreme risk. This marathon reminded me that waiting passively is not an option; our youth must act.”
Ahmad, who serves as executive chairperson of BYLC and CEO of GYLC, has devoted his career to mentoring young leaders and promoting initiatives focused on physical health, resilience, and societal engagement.
Asif Zahir, deputy managing director of Ananta Group and former Google product manager, added:
“This marathon reflects the Bangladeshi spirit—resilience and defiance of limitations. We wanted to show that nothing is impossible. Where no Bangladeshi has gone before, courage must lead the way.”
Marathon Overview
| Participant | Role / Background | Marathon Details | Key Takeaways |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ejaj Ahmad | Founder BYLC & GYLC | Completed 42.2 km full Antarctic Marathon | Advocates climate action and youth leadership |
| Asif Zahir | Deputy MD, Ananta Group; ex-Google PM | Completed 42.2 km full Antarctic Marathon | Symbolises resilience and boundary-breaking |
| Marathon Location | Antarctica, near research stations | Volcanic debris, mud, rocks, glaciers | Extreme endurance challenge; max 100 participants |
| Date | 9 March 2026 | Full marathon distance | Historic first for Bangladesh |
Significance
Ahmad and Zahir’s accomplishment not only spotlights Bangladesh in the realm of extreme global sports but also draws attention to climate change and environmental vulnerability, particularly affecting low-lying nations.
Through initiatives like BYLC and GYLC, which promote physical well-being, resilience, and youth empowerment, their success becomes a symbol of ambition, determination, and international representation. Their journey demonstrates that with preparation, perseverance, and courage, individuals can overcome extreme physical landscapes while inspiring future generations to pursue extraordinary challenges.
Sources: Bangladesh Youth Leadership Centre, Global Youth Leadership Centre, Antarctic Marathon Official Press Release, Participant Statements