On September 27, 2026, Almaty hosted the 15th anniversary Almaty Marathon, one of the largest mass sporting events in Kazakhstan.
Kanat Daubayev, Professor of the Department of Logistics and Business at ALT University named after Mukhametzhan Tynyshpayev, participated in the 21.1 km half-marathon as an official pacemaker, leading runners towards a target finishing time of 2 hours and 20 minutes.
A pacemaker is an experienced runner who helps participants complete a race within a predetermined time. The role involves not only maintaining the required pace while taking the course profile into account, but also guiding the group throughout the race, monitoring the pace schedule, and providing encouragement and motivation to participants.
For Kanat Daubayev, this was his first experience serving as a pacemaker at a marathon event. During the race, together with another pacemaker, he guided a group of participants, helped runners maintain the required pace, and supported them through challenging sections of the course. During the final stage of the race, particular attention was given to participants who needed additional encouragement to successfully reach the finish line.
Long-distance running, however, has already become an established part of Kanat Daubayev’s sporting activities. He has previously participated in a number of marathon and half-marathon races. His personal best for the full 42.195 km marathon distance is 3 hours, 35 minutes and 58 seconds, achieved at the Almaty Marathon 2025.
The participation of ALT University faculty members in major sporting events is also important for the student community. A lecturer’s personal example demonstrates to students that professional and academic development can be successfully combined with physical activity, self-discipline, determination, and a responsible attitude towards health. Such examples contribute to developing a culture of healthy living within the university community and encourage young people to make regular physical activity part of their everyday lives.
Kanat Daubayev’s participation in the Almaty Marathon 2026 also reflects the university community’s contribution to United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3 — Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3), which promotes healthy lives, well-being, and healthier lifestyles for people of all ages.
SDG 3 — Good Health and Well-being
Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.
Author: Alik Asel
