News: Running

What started as a way to showcase the beauty of Ha Long Bay—a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site—has become something Vietnam’s running community is really proud of over the last ten years. The organizers have always wanted to make the event more international, and they have focused primarily on ensuring runners worldwide have a great time. The course, with its unique blend of challenging terrains and breathtaking views, lets runners soak in Ha Long Bay’s one-of-a-kind scenery while experiencing the thrill of a well-organized race. 2025 is a big year—it marks the 10th anniversary of the Halong Heritage International Marathon, which is still the only marathon in Vietnam with the World Athletics Road Race Label. This recognition not only showcases the event’s top-notch quality but also puts Vietnam firmly on the world marathon map. It’s a testament to Quang Ninh’s push for sustainable tourism, bringing together sports, heritage, culture, and travel on a global stage. On October 7, 2025, the Halong Heritage International Marathon received the World Athletics Road Race Label certification. With this certification, Ha Long unlocks potential for being a hub for the world’s running community, where results are accepted globally and potentially used for qualifying for major events like the World Championships or Olympic Games. Beyond competition, the event has become a significant contributor to sustainable sport tourism. As thousands of domestic and international runners and visitors converge on Ha Long each year, the Halong Heritage International Marathon has been directly contributing to revenues in services, lodging, and dining, while amplifying the image of Vietnam and Quang Ninh–Ha Long in particular to the world. Your support and participation make a real difference to the local economy. Halong Heritage International Marathon 2025 is scheduled for November 23, 2025. It is more than a competition; it is an occasion for each runner and athlete to walk proudly along a heritage route and indulge in Ha Long Bay’s irresistible beauty. Each step not merely chases passion but also serves to consolidate the position of a Vietnamese marathon that has indeed arrived on a global scale. This year’s event is expected to welcome the most significant number of international participants in Vietnam, with nearly 3,000 runners —a 120% increase over 2024. Lining up to compete is Lee Bong-ju, one of the greatest long-distance runners in Korean athletics. Born in 1970, Lee made history by winning the silver medal in the men’s marathon (42.195 km) at the 1996 Atlanta Summer Olympics with a time of 2:12:39. Joining him will be around 1,500 other Koreans, including professional athletes, tourists, businesspeople, and members of the Korean community living and working in Vietnam. Based on preliminary estimates, if each runner spends an average of 3–5 million VND on accommodation, dining, and services, then over just three days, the Halong Heritage International Marathon could generate tens of billions of VND for the local tourism industry—making a tangible contribution to the country’s broader strategy to “reach outward.”

The Maldives Half Marathon 2025 concluded in Hulhumalé on 15 August with record participation, making it the largest half marathon event ever organized by iRunners. This year’s race brought together over 1,500 runners across all categories, creating a vibrant celebration of sport, community, and culture. The highlight was the Half Marathon (21.1 km), where 213 runners lined up at the start — the biggest field in the event’s history. Quote from Race Director, Hussain Shujau “It’s amazing to see the growth of marathon tourism in Maldives. Maldives Half Marathon 2025 is our biggest international event so far with runners from 26 countries participating in the event. The 20 runners from Japanese Running Club in India’s participation is something we welcome wholeheartedly, and we invite other global running clubs to visit Maldives for a Runcation. I want to personally thank all our sponsors, partners, volunteers and supporters for making Maldives Half Marathon 2025 a huge success.” A Truly International Race The 2025 edition welcomed runners from 27 different countries, showcasing the global appeal of the event. Among them, a special highlight was the 20 international runners from the Japanese Running Club in India, whose enthusiasm added to the diverse spirit of the race. Inspiring the Next Generation with UNICEF In partnership with UNICEF Maldives, this year’s focus extended to the Kids Mile, which saw over 300 children take part. A remarkable 200 students from Salahuddin School participated, reflecting the growing passion for running among young Maldivians and the importance of building a healthier future generation.

Mr. Jakrapol Tangsuthitham, Assistant Minister of Tourism and Sports and Ministry Spokesperson, presided over a press conference to announce the IAU 100 KM Asia & Oceania Championships 2025. The event took place at the Rattanakosin Room, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (Sao Ching Cha), attended by key figures including Assoc. Prof. Chatchart Sittipun, Governor of Bangkok; Maj. Gen. Surapong Ariyamongkol, Vice President and Secretary-General of the Athletics Association of Thailand under Royal Patronage; Deputy Police Captain Dr. Manas Nonuch, Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC); Mr. Nantapol Thongnilpan, Director of the Professional Sports Development Division representing the Sports Authority of Thailand; along with representatives from relevant agencies and the media. The event aims to promote ultramarathon sports at both continental and national levels, positioning Thailand as a hub for health-focused sports in Asia under the government’s “Amazing Thailand 2025” policy. It also serves as a stepping stone for Thailand to bid for hosting the IAU 100 KM World Championships in the future. The IAU 100 KM Asia & Oceania Championships 2025 will be held at Wachirabenchathat park (Rot Fai Park) on November 22-23, 2025. The competition categories include: - IAU 100 KM Asia & Oceania Championships (Men/Women) - Thailand Championships: 100 KM and 24-Hour races (Men/Women) - Open Race: 100 KM, 50 KM, 24-Hour, 12-Hour, and 6-Hour races Mr. Jakrapol highlighted that this marks Thailand’s historic first as the official host of a continental ultramarathon championship certified by the International Association of Ultrarunners (IAU). The event showcases Thailand’s readiness to host global competitions, supported by robust infrastructure, safety measures, medical systems, and event management. Aligned with the government’s “Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism & Sports Year 2025” initiative, the championship leverages sports to promote Thailand’s soft power. It also positions the country as a global sports event hub. A successful event could pave the way for Thailand to bid for the IAU 100 KM World Championships in the future. Mr. Jakrapol expressed gratitude to the Athletics Association of Thailand, IAU, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, and all stakeholders for their collaboration. He invited Thais to join as gracious hosts in welcoming athletes from across the region, aiming to establish Bangkok as a “world-class running city.” He concluded with confidence that the event will be a success and a source of pride for all Thais.

We are excited to announce that the 2025 IAU 100 km Asia and Oceania Championships will be held in Bangkok, Thailand, on November 22nd – 23rd, 2025. This prestigious event will be organized by the Ultra Park Run Thailand in Suan Rotfai Park. The Thailand ultrarunning community has made significant strides in recent years, highlighted by the successful 5th edition of the Thailand Ultra Running Championships, which took place on November 9th-10th 2024 at the picturesque Suan Rotfai Park in Bangkok. This event, organized by Ultra Park Run Thailand, was recognized by the IAU with an IAU Bronze Label, marking a key milestone in the country’s ultrarunning development. Bangkok is a vibrant city known for its rich culture and hospitality, making it an ideal location for this championship. The event aims to bring together the best ultrarunners from across Asia and Oceania, showcasing their incredible endurance and skills in the 100 km distance. The LOC has a strong commitment to promoting ultrarunning in the region and has successfully hosted various running events in the past. We are confident that their experience and passion for the sport will ensure a memorable and well-organized championship. IAU and LOC warmly invite all ultrarunners and fans of the sport to join us in Bangkok for this exciting event. We look forward to witnessing outstanding performances and creating lasting memories together in this beautiful city. Jacek Bedkowski IAU Director of Communication

Supported by Dubai Sports Council, Middle East’s Oldest International Road Race to Welcome Runners from Over 140 Countries Dubai, UAE – The organising committee of the Dubai Marathon has officially opened registration for the 25th edition of the iconic race, set to take place on February 1, 2026. Celebrating its silver jubilee, the Dubai Marathon – the Middle East’s oldest international road race – will mark a significant milestone in its illustrious history with special activities and elite-level competition. Held with the continued support of the Dubai Sports Council, the race is renowned for its flat, fast course that has attracted elite athletes and running enthusiasts from across the globe. With participation expected from over 140 countries, the event remains a cornerstone on Dubai’s sports calendar and a key fixture in the global marathon circuit. Recognised as the first race in the region to earn the prestigious World Athletics Gold Label, the Dubai Marathon has become synonymous with record-breaking performances and world-class participation. Legendary athletes have tackled the route, including Haile Gebrselassie who famously recording the second-fastest marathon time in history during his first appearance in Dubai in 2008, a feat that solidified the race's global standing. Dubai Sports Council reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the event, highlighting its contribution to the city’s international sports profile and its significant economic impact, particularly through tourism and hospitality. Over the past 25 years, the Dubai Marathon has grown into one of the top ten marathons in the world, drawing top-tier athletes and thousands of amateur runners each year. Alongside the full 42.195km marathon, the 2026 edition will feature a 10km road race and a 4km fun run, offering an inclusive experience for participants of all fitness levels. Registration is now open via the official website dubaimarathon.org Race Director Peter Connerton said: “In coordination with the Dubai Sports opening of registration for the 25th Dubai Marathon. To mark the silver jubilee, we are preparing a year-long series of special events leading up to race day. “Since the inaugural edition, the Dubai Marathon has steadily risen to the top tier of global road racing. Highlights such as the 2008 race featuring Haile Gebrselassie and the ground-breaking 2018 event where seven runners clocked sub-2:05 times for the first time in marathon history have cemented its place among the world’s most prestigious marathons.” Recent editions have seen rising stars make their mark. In 2017, current Olympic champion Tamirat Tola took victory, while in 2019 reigning world marathon champion Ruth Chepngetich made her marathon debut with a win in Dubai. Earlier this year, Ethiopian runner Bute Gemechu clinched the men’s title on his debut appearance with a time of 2:04:51, while compatriot Berdatu Hirpa secured the women’s title in 2:18:27, surpassing her personal best after a thrilling duel with 2023 winner Dera Dida. Ahmed Al Kamali, General Coordinator of the Dubai Marathon, emphasised the city’s unmatched infrastructure and readiness to host global sporting events. “Dubai offers world-class facilities, a highly advanced transportation network, and diverse accommodation options, making it an ideal destination for international events,” he said. “The marathon plays a major role in promoting Dubai as a leading tourist and sports hub. We look forward to welcoming runners from around the world as we celebrate the silver jubilee of the Dubai Marathon, the first international marathon in the Middle East.”

A line-up featuring a former world marathon champion, a former marathon world record holder and international city marathon winners from around the globe will line up when the 2025 Dubai Marathon gets underway in the UAE on Sunday (January 12). Staged under the auspices of the Dubai Sports Council, the Dubai Marathon will celebrate its 24 th anniversary with thousands of runners taking to the area around the iconic Burj Al Arab less than two weeks into the new year. Among them will be a man with special memories of the city. Ethiopian Lelisa Desisa exploded on to the world marathon scene by winning a compelling Dubai Marathon back in 2013. It was the start of a running journey that took him to running glory at the Boston Marathon in 2013 and 2015, the New York Marathon in 2018 before being crowned World Marathon Champion in Doha in 2019. But while Desisa was one of the most successful marathon runners pre-pandemic, the man with the fastest time in the field is Kenyan star Dennis Kimetto – and although his 2:02:57 in Berlin was set a decade ago it was the first sub 2:03 in marathon history and stood for four years. Kimetto has won three big city marathons during his career – Chicago, Tokyo and Berlin – breaking the course record at each and has fond memories of the UAE having won the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon in 2012, a feat matched by Desisa two years later in 2014. In the women’s elite field, 2022 Sydney Marathon winner Tigist Girma heads the line- up with a marathon personal best of 2:18:52, while compatriot Zeineba Yimer – winner of the 2023 Barcelona Marathon – and fellow Ethiopian and 2023 Dubai Marathon champion Dera Dida will also have title ambitions for the weekend with personal bests of 2:19:07 and 2:19:24 respectively. The elite men and women competing in the 24 th edition of the Middle East’s oldest and fastest international marathon gathered to meet sponsors and media at a pre- event press conference. “The Dubai Marathon is one of the oldest sporting events on our calendar and a very important date for the city,” said Ali Omar Al Balooshi, Director of Sports Events Department, Dubai Sports Council. “We are delighted to see so many established athletes with us once again and look forward to a memorable race on Sunday.” But while the focus may have been on those who have already produced fast times at the world’s greatest marathon venues, a host of up-and-coming athletes are waiting in the wings ready to write their own headlines in a race renowned for creating new champions. In the past, the men’s race has seen victories for the likes of Desisa, reigning Olympic Champion Tamirat Tola and course record holder Getaneh Molla (2:03:34), while last year’s women’s race witnessed a new course record from Tigist Ketema (2:16:07), a record time for a woman making her marathon debut. Making his Dubai debut this year is British Paralympian Richard Whitehead MBE, marathon world record holder for athletes with bilateral knee amputations who ran the 2024 Chicago Marathon in a record-breaking 2:41:36 in October. A multi-gold medal winning Paralympian in London (2012) and Rio(2016), Whitehead has also achieved four World Championship titles and is looking forward to his first attempt at the Dubai Marathon. “I love the camaraderie of the events, how they embrace all ages, all cultures, and all abilities,” he said. “I think running as an athlete who lives with a disability enables people to see that anything is possible, if you believe in yourself.” The international elites will now spend the eve of the event completing last-minute training on the streets and roads of the city before tackling the 42.195km route that starts on Umm Suqeim Street in the shadow of the Burj Al Arab. Late registration for the Marathon, the 10km Road Race and the 4km Fun Run can made online only at dubaimarathon.org with the final chance for run number collection being Saturday (January 11). And for runners looking for transport, RTA Dubai has announced that the Dubai Metro will be open from 5am on race morning. The 2025 Dubai Marathon is supported by the Dubai Sports Council, adidas, the Channel 4 Radio Network, ITP Media Group, XIAOMI, JETOUR, Bisleri Water, Dubai RTA, Dubai Police and Dubai Municipality and SIRO One Za'abeel, the first fully integrated Fitness + Recovery hotel in Dubai.

The Dubai Marathon is proud to announce Xiaomi as an official partner for the 2025 event in a move that highlights Xiaomi’s ongoing commitment to promoting sports, innovation, and a healthy lifestyle. The collaboration brings together a global leader in smart technology and one of the most prestigious marathons in the world, which will be staged for the 24th time on Sunday, January 12. One of the Middle East’s most recognised events and an iconic race attracting participants from around the world, the Dubai Marathon offers a unique platform for athletes, enthusiasts, and spectators. And the involvement of Xiaomi – a consumer electronics and smart manufacturing company – reflects the brand’s dedication to enhancing the marathon experience through innovation, creating a smarter, healthier world for all. “We are thrilled to welcome Xiaomi as an official partner for 2025,” said Dubai Marathon Event Director Peter Connerton. “This collaboration combines the spirit of athleticism with Xiaomi's passion for innovation, perfectly complementing our goal to inspire and motivate runners of all levels.” The partnership is expected to further elevate the event’s status as one of the region’s premier marathon races and the fastest race of its kind in the Middle East. With Xiaomi’s support, the marathon is set to deliver an engaging, memorable experience for participants and fans across the Middle East and around the world. Registration for the Dubai Marathon, the 10km Road Race and the 4km Fun Run can still be made online at dubaimarathon.org. The 2025 Dubai Marathon is supported by the Dubai Sports Council, adidas, the Channel 4 Radio Network, Xiaomi, ITP Media Group, Bisleri Water, Dubai RTA, Dubai Police and Dubai Municipality.

Region’s Fastest Half Marathon to Return on February 1, 2025. Early Registration for Rak Half Marathon: Worlds Marathon and Ahotu Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, 15 July 2024: Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon will return for its 18th edition on Saturday 1 February 2025, with four races staged on Al Marjan Island. Hosted by the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon is a firm favourite attracting community runners and international elites alike. Featuring the 21.1km half marathon race, the event will also offer races at 10km, 5km and 2km runs for athletes of all ages and abilities. Raki Phillips, Chief Executive Officer, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority said: “We are excited to announce the return of one of the most highly anticipated global sporting events in the Nature Emirate for the 18th year. The race never fails to produce world-class champions and we look forward once again to welcoming back an incredible line-up of elite athletes, sporting enthusiasts and tourists from across the globe”. With the registration process now open, front runners can take advantage of the event’s early registration promotion, secure their places on the start line and enjoy special entry fees until September 30. The early registration fee for the Half Marathon itself is USD50 (AED185) with the 10km, 5km and 2km Road Races costing USD30 (AED110), USD20 (AED74) and USD10 (AED37) respectively. “With six months to go, we are pleased to be able to launch an early registration promotion for those runners who want to secure their places in the race of their choice,” said Peter Connerton, Managing Director of Pace Events and Race Director of the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon. “The running community will have over three months to take advantage of the Early Registration Promotion before prices revert on October 1, and we look forward to welcoming early registrations from regular runners as well as from those keen to test themselves for the first time on the fast and flat roads of Al Marjan Island.” In February, Kenya’s Daniel Mateiko and Tsigie Gebreselama of Ethiopia took the men and women’s titles in the 2024 Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon, which to date leads World Athletics’ Competition Performance Rankings for half marathons staged anywhere in the world in 2024. Making his third appearance in Ras Al Khaimah, Mateiko stormed home in a time of 58:45 to win by five seconds from compatriot John Korir with fellow Kenyan Isaia Lasoi in third. In the women’s 21.1km race, Ethiopian Gebreselama smashed her personal best by more than 30 seconds to win in 65:14 from 2020 Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon champion Ababel Yeshaneh also from Ethiopia. Tanzania’s Jacklin Sakilu took a surprise third place finish beating her personal best by more than three minutes.

The iconic Standard Chartered Marathon sets foot in Vietnam as Standard Chartered announced its title sponsorship for the Hanoi Marathon Heritage Race, starting 2024. The first Standard Chartered Hanoi Marathon Heritage Race, is scheduled to take place on November 3rd, 2024, running through the vibrant streets of Hanoi’s old quarter. This is the first mass participation event title sponsored by Standard Chartered in Vietnam, a market with deep roots and a long heritage since 1904. The inaugural race will be a key milestone as the Bank commemorates its 120th year anniversary in Vietnam in 2024. Standard Chartered Hanoi Marathon Heritage Race will be the 10th race in the Standard Chartered Marathon franchise, which is renowned worldwide for its celebration of endurance, unity, and the pursuit of excellence, upholding high international race standards. Standard Chartered has had a rich history of hosting prestigious marathons worldwide since 1997. Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon is the Bank’s first marathon and the biggest one with the participation of over 70,000 runners pre-covid. This race, along with Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon which is attracting 50,000 runners in 2023, is categorized as World Athletics Gold Label. Ms. Michele Wee, CEO of Standard Chartered Bank Vietnam, said: “We are very proud to be the title sponsor, bringing the first edition of the Standard Chartered Hanoi Marathon Heritage Race to Hanoi, an event that celebrates the richness of culture and heritage, which resonates with Standard Chartered as one of the oldest international banks in Vietnam. Leveraging the expertise from our Standard Chartered Marathon franchise, we aim to bring the best of traditions and modern race technology to elevate the experience for all." “The Standard Chartered Hanoi Marathon Heritage Race will be a race for everyone – bringing people from all walks of life together to stay active and lead a healthy lifestyle, while binding our community through the shared values of resilience and determination,” she said. “Vietnam is a key market in our global footprint. We continue to invest more into the country to better serve our clients, colleagues and the community. Being a title sponsor of a prestigious marque event here reinforces our commitment to Vietnam. We are here for the long run. We are here for good.” she added.

Among women, Ivyne Lagat wins in 2h24’36" and writes her name in the roll of honor With 2h06’24" the Kenyan Asbel Rutto sets the new race record The Last Cup was awarded to Julia Khvasechko 129 flags are waving on the starting line ROME – Rome woke up to a magnificent day, with the sun caressing all the runners and illuminating their smiles, their desire to party and add a new piece of history to the thousand-year history of this city. Record number of participants and foreigners, male race record, exceptional conditions to embark on the journey towards the 30th birthday on March 16, 2025. There were the volunteers of the Roman Legion Historical Group who gave a solemn character to the start of the most attended sporting event in Italy by making the ancient shoes resonate while the musical band of the Municipal Police Corps of Rome Capital sang the Anthem National under the watchful eye of the Colosseum. It was then the Councilor for Major Events, Sport and Tourism of Rome Capital Alessandro Onorato who gave the official start at 8.30 am to around 19 thousand marathon runners, almost 11 thousand from abroad, who set off in the four waves to go and conquer the streets of the Eternal City. 40 thousand hearts fueled by the strength of the values of sport, friendship, solidarity, the desire to redeem obstacles. Before the official start, departure at 8.25 for the Inix pushers and the wheelchair athletes including the Paralympic athlete Toni Milano. THE POPE’S GREETING TO THE ANGELUS – "I welcome with pleasure the participants in the Rome Marathon, the traditional celebration of sport and brotherhood. Also this year, on the initiative of Athletica Vaticana, numerous athletes are involved in the “relays of solidarity”, becoming witnesses of sharing", Pope Francis’ comment at the Angelus in St. Peter’s Square. FINISH (MEN) – Final solo by the Kenyan Asbel Rutto who with 2h06’24" (2’59"/km) wrote a new course record, improving the 2:06:48 of the Ethiopian Bekele Tefera Fikre who won it in 2022 and his personal best of almost 3’. Place of honor for Brian Kipsang in 2h07’54" followed by Sila Kiptoo in 2h08’08" who precedes a long trail of ten Kenyans. Great race by Edgardo Confessa (Km Sport) who rose to 14th position and closed his efforts in 2h26’02" (3’28"/km). Silver medal for Ettore Scardecchia (Asd Running Evolution) in 2h28’33" followed by Fabrizio Meoli (Int. Security) with 2h29’15". “Winning in such a beautiful city with a new race record is a great emotion. I struggled several times on the cobblestones but I was very sure of my condition and my goal. True, the last 10km I was a little tired and I suffered a little from the heat but the motivation was very high. I’m not at all surprised by my move to the half marathon so early: my legs responded well and I wanted to give my best. I managed to admire this fantastic city a little and I have to thank the large audience who supported me throughout the entire journey,” said the winning Kenyan. FINISH (WOMEN)-Victory with an extraordinary personal best for the Kenyan Ivyne Lagat who finishes her efforts in 2h24’36 “(3’25” / km). The women’s podium was completed by Kenyan Lydia Simiyu in 2h25’10" and Ethiopian Emebet Niguse in 2h26’41". Tenth overall was the first of the Italians Denise Tappatà (Stamura Ancona) who crossed the finish line in 2h47’50" (3’59"/km), followed by Paola Salvatori (US Roma 83) in 2h50’48" and Damiana Monfreda (Amatori Atl Acquaviva) in 2h55’10". “What a satisfaction to win in Rome, I’m very happy with my performance. I improved my personal marathon time by about 16 minutes. I couldn’t ask for anything better. I loved racing in Rome with a huge audience applauding me. I struggled in the last 5km of the race but I held on because I wanted this result too much,” said the winner. Acea Run Rome Photos – 2024

The X-Bionic Lake Garda 42 attracts 2,000+ runners from across the globe In this interview series, Ahotu will be speaking with the people behind some of the most unique races across the globe. We’ll be discussing the history of the event, challenges and how to overcome them, attracting sponsors, reaching new runners and more! Thanks for joining us Jan. Could you please introduce yourself and the race for those who aren’t familiar? Thank you for having me, my name is Jan Bruns and I’m the race lead for the X-Bionic Lake Garda 42. I have been organising sporting events since the beginning of my professional career and I’m always motivated and inspired by the happy faces of the participants. When we came up with the idea of organising a marathon at Lake Garda, I was immediately hooked. I’ve always been active in sport myself and have taken part in many races, whether triathlons, runs or bike races. The X-Bionic Lake Garda 42 is an event that takes place in spring on the shores of the beautiful Lake Garda in Italy. A running event, which allows participants to run a marathon or half-marathon along the shores of the lake. Not only a race but a pure running experience with side events, expo, gastro area and cheering zone. How long have you been organising the X-Bionic Lake Garda 42? In 2020, our event agency took over the traditional “Lake Garda Marathon” event to revive the marathon with passion, innovation and with a renewed focus on sustainability. Due to the pandemic we were forced to cancel the 2021 edition of the race, but that didn’t stop us and in fact, we managed to organise a special edition Lake Garda 42 – EditionZero! in view of the first official edition of Lake Garda 42 which took place in April 2022. The first edition of Lake Garda 42, with its side events, attracted 2,000 runners, from 37 countries. We were proud to have almost half of our LG21 race were women and we hope to continue to grow female representation at our races. In the 2023 edition we had 1,000 runners for the LG42 marathon, 1,640 runners for the LG21 half marathon and 60 young runners for the LG Kids run. We are optimistic that for the 2024 edition participation across all distances will increase significantly and we look forward to welcoming more runners from across Europe and the globe. What makes the race unique? The course in the extraordinary setting of Lake Garda makes it unique for sure. Participants run on the cycle/pedestrian alongside the shores of the lake, through the streets of charming towns, all set amongst a breathtaking landscape where the mountains meet the lake. Our event doesn’t start at the start line and doesn’t end at the finish line. It’s a weekend filled with side events and a range of elements which make it a unique race, including the ferry which transports participants across the Lake for the race start! The X-Bionic Lake Garda 42 allows runners to enjoy a stunning lakeside course What are the challenges with organising the race in such a popular location? In my view there are two main challenges. The first one involves co-ordinating the infrastructure across four different locations during the event. The challenge to get both participants as well as race supples and equipment to the different start lines in Limone sul Garda (for the marathon) and Arco (for the half-marathon) and then back to the accommodation after the finish in Malcesine requires a lot of planning and coordination during the race weekend. The second one is all around the safety for our participants on the course. We have to close two main roads and the event requires hundreds of volunteers to prepare the course with feeding zones as well as to handle the traffic and road closures. Our team and our volunteers do a fantastic job in creating a well-organised event with a great atmosphere. What does the course offer participants? A lot, for sure the lake view for around 2/3 of the marathon course is spectacular. But also, the combination of grand snowcapped mountains during Spring and the atmosphere in and around the race. For me, a personal highlight is always when the race passes the narrow streets in the old city centre of Limone and Malcesine and the agricultural roads near to Arco. The race is designed not around securing a PB, but to allow participants to enjoy a unique running experience combined with Italian dolce vita. What is your favourite thing about putting on the event? I’m always motivated and inspired by the happy faces of the participants. One of my favourite things is to see our runners excited and the sense of pride at the finish-line. Knowing that our hard work made it possible for people from all over the world to enjoy a unique and unforgettable experience in one of the most beautiful parts of Italy is a very satisfying feeling! Runners passing the Scaliger castle of Arco What are your main marketing channels to promote the race and reach more runners in Italy and overseas? We use different channels to promote the race and to reach passionate runners. Our first line of engagement is through social media through our Facebook and Instagram accounts. We send regular email newsletters to keep our community informed and engaged and we also place flyers and billboards in local hotspots to create a buzz within the community. Of course on the international side we work with Ahotu and World’s Marathons to reach runners from overseas. We also partner with PR agencies to ensure widespread coverage and to enhance our visibility, as well as collaborating with partners, exhibitors, sponsors and other running events. Are you taking any measures to improve the sustainability of the event? * We aim to be as sustainable as possible not only during the race weekend but all year round. Where possible we work with local suppliers to strengthen the region, offer free shuttle services (including ferries) to reduce car use and minimise the impact on the roads during the race weekend. Going forward we are always looking at ways we can reduce our impact on the environment. Are there any partners/sponsors you would like to shout out? Since the beginning, a very important partnership has been and still is with our host regions and municipalities; Garda Trentino, Limone, Malcesine and Trentino, without their cooperation and support the race wouldn’t be possible. Of course our title partner X-Bionic, a global brand that’s renowned as an innovator in the world of sport and that shares many of our values in terms of quality, our international outlook and the desire to achieve maximum performance. All of our partners play a role in making the race what is it, it wouldn’t be possible to organise a race like this without their support and likewise that of our volunteers and the local communities where the race takes place. Mountains and lake views are on offer throughout the course When is the next edition of the X-Bionic Lake Garda 42 and where can participants go to find out more? The next edition is from the 12th to the 14th of April 2024, check out our Instagram for regular updates on the race @LakeGarda42 Interested in taking part? You can register for the 2024 edition of the X-Bionic Lake Garda 42 on Ahotu To feature in our interview series you can drop us an email on [email protected] Interested in promoting your race with World’s Marathons or Ahotu Marathons? Contact us on [email protected]

Chiangmai, 10 Dec 2023 – In an electrifying display of endurance and skill, Doi Inthanon Thailand By UTMB 2023 concluded with heart-pounding moments, record-breaking times, and an unparalleled sense of achievement. The event, held at Royal Rajapruek Park Chiangmai, showcased the epitome of trail running prowess with remarkable results in the Trans-160 and Elephant-100 categories. Trans-160 – Male Dominance from Hoka Team In the Trans-160 category, the male competition was fierce, marked by strategic moves and resilient performances. Duo Ji of Hoka Team from China emerged as the champion, clocking an impressive 23:58:49. Despite the previous champion Zhao Jiaju setting a high pace, Duo Ji’s steady strength and endurance secured his victory. Following closely were Gediminas Grinius of Vibram Team from Lithuania (25:25:58) and Benat Marmissolle of La Sportiva Team from France (25:44:03), making the podium a true global showcase of talent. Trans-160 – Female Triumph from China In the Trans-160 female category, China dominated the podium with Lin Chen of Adidas Terrex Team clinching the first position in 30:05:15. The intensity continued with Anna Li of BeyondWater Team securing the second spot (30:11:14) and Yuanyuan Wu of Altra Team claiming the third position (30:54:25). The all-Chinese female podium highlighted the incredible depth of talent in the trail running community. Elephant-100 – Chinese Prowess Prevails The Elephant-100 category echoed the dominance of Chinese runners. Guangfu Meng of Hoka Team secured the first position with an impressive time of 10:09:22. Peiquan You of Outopia Team (10:42:57) and Hui Bai of Kailas Team (10:43:58) rounded out the top three male finishers. In the female category, Hua Ha of Mude Team from Vietnam claimed the first position (12:09:02), followed by Ragna Debats of Merrell – UESabadell Team from the Netherlands (12:43:25) and Emilie Maroteaux of Run Passion Trail Team from France (13:26:39). Event Glory and Global Recognition Doi Inthanon Thailand By UTMB 2023 has etched its name among the world’s best trail running series, earning recognition among 40+ global events. The event’s resounding success solidifies its Major status, ensuring participants can collect double running stones for at least the next two years. This milestone places Doi Inthanon Thailand By UTMB at the forefront of the global trail running community, making it a must-experience event for enthusiasts worldwide. Save the Date for the 5th Edition The resounding success of the 4th edition sets the stage for the much-anticipated 5th edition, scheduled for December 6-8, 2024. Trail running enthusiasts, mark your calendars, and stay tuned for another thrilling adventure at Doi Inthanon Thailand By UTMB. The journey continues, and the trails await. To keep up to date information, please visit Doi Inthanon Thailand By UTMB or follow on: Youtube: @ThailandByUTMBOfficial Instagram: @doiinthanonthailandbyutmb Facebook: Doi Inthanon Thailand by UTMB Twitter: @thailandbyutmb