Manipur’s Aheibam Kiran Kumar, also known as Papak, achieved 3rd place in his age division at the Tunnel Marathon 2025 held at Snoqualmie, Washington, USA. He completed the marathon with an official time of 2:58:32.
In the overall rankings, Kiran Kumar secured the 17th position and stood 14th in the gender category. His achievement has brought recognition to Manipur, as he proudly represented his roots from Kwakeithel Heinoukhongnembi Lai Nongshaba, Imphal West District.
Running in the marathon wearing a uniform with the message “Save Manipur, Bring Peace”, Kiran Kumar highlighted the ongoing turmoil in his home state for the past two years, drawing global attention to the situation.
Currently based in Calgary, Canada, where he works, Kiran Kumar’s performance in Washington has also qualified him for the Chicago Marathon 2026 and the prestigious Boston Marathon 2027.
His marathon journey began in 2017 with the New York Marathon. He also successfully completed the Chicago Marathon in 2022, 2023, and 2024, cementing his reputation as a dedicated long-distance runner. He is supported by his wife, Aheibam Ongbi Wangkheimayum Geetabali, and their two children in Canada.