Saturday, February 17, 2024
On February 20, a marathon will be held on the frozen Pangong Lake near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China, to highlight the effects of climate change on the Himalayan glaciers in Ladakh. This will be the second occurrence of the event, which will be hosted at an altitude of around 4,350 meters above sea level, drawing attention to the distinctive hurdles presented by running on a frozen body of water.
The marathon is being organised through a partnership between the Adventure Sports Foundation of Ladakh (ASFL), the Tourism Department, and the Ladakh administration, distinguishing itself by its dedication to environmental sustainability.
The organisers have disclosed their plans to adopt a sustainable approach for the marathon, specifically avoiding the use of plastic water bottles and other waste-producing items during the event. They also communicated their belief in the capacity of sports to unite individuals from various backgrounds and faiths, particularly in tackling broader issues such as the climate crisis.
With participation capped at 50 runners to maintain the exclusive nature of the Pangong frozen lake marathon, the event joins the ranks of other renowned frozen lake marathons, like Norway’s Icebug Frozen Lake Marathon, celebrated for their adventurous appeal. Competing in winter, and specifically on a frozen lake, presents unique challenges and thrills for adventure seekers from both domestic and international locales.
Acknowledged by the Guinness Book of World Records as the World’s Highest Frozen Lake Half Marathon, the event seeks to invigorate winter tourism in Changthang and champion sustainability efforts worldwide.
This iteration of the marathon will feature both full and half marathons on the frozen Pangong Lake, with participants undergoing necessary acclimatisation in Leh prior to the race. Organisers are implementing safety protocols, including on-site medical teams, hot water stations every 5 kilometers, and an ambulance on standby for the duration of the event. Runners are recommended to equip themselves with essential gear such as head torches, warm jackets, and raincoats to navigate the demanding conditions successfully.
Moreover, the marathon aims to serve as a conduit for raising consciousness about the impact of climate change on the delicate Himalayan ecosystem. It aspires to cultivate a culture of sustainability and international cooperation, positioning itself as more than just an adventurous endeavour but also a meaningful platform for climate change awareness.
[Image Source: Condé Nast]
Tags: Adventure, Awareness, ClimateChange, Ladakh, marathon, sustainability, Tourism
Wednesday, May 1, 2024
Wednesday, May 1, 2024
