Mountain Marathon in Sapa 2014
Unique trail runs of 10km, 21km, 42km or 70km in a spectacular mountain region of north Vietnam.
Welcome to the mountains of Vietnam to thousands of yellow rice fields, water buffaloes and colorful ethnic minority groups. The small dirt roads and narrow trails will take you through the majestic mountains and valleys that are only used by locals. Each route will encompass challenging climbs, exhilarating descents and a true glimpse of local life through the rice fields and ethnic minority villages.
In general
The trails – with cumulative positive vertical meters ranging from around 1000m (21km) to round 3000 meters (70km) – will be on a marked route, tagged at crucial navigational points. Water and fruit will be available at aid stations every 10-15km. Runners doing the marathon or the ultra-distance must bring their own additional energy bars, gel or personal food and other important mandatory equipment (see equipment). Given the altitude and general hard conditions this cannot be your first Full or Ultra Marathon.
Very strong sun or heavy rain is always a possibility in the mountains. Any participation in this unique event is completely at your own risk and
you will be required to sign a waiver in order to participate.
After the race we will enjoy the very special social life of mountain runners and a good meal around a big bonfire where we can share our running experiences, the mountains and the twinkling stars above. Bring your family, your friends or join this unique event on your own. You don’t have to be a fast runner, but you better be tough and looking for a unique adventure of hiking or running.
Organizer: Topas Ecolodge
Date: 18-22nd of September 2014. (Race day 20th of September)
This run is arranged by Topas Travel, Topas Ecolodge and The Danish Embassy in Vietnam. The run is a social event, planned and organized by runners for runners, nature lovers and people who want an extraordinary, remote and unique experience.
The event is a result of a long lasting relation between Topas Ecolodge and the Embassy of Denmark in Vietnam. The ecolodge is remote located in the Sapa mountains and was partly funded by Danish development assistance as a developing project and a showcase for sustainable green tourism in the early 2000.
Source: Travel Sapa- travel agency in Sapa Town- Lao Cai, Vietnam