In August 2014, adventure seeking runners from all over the world will gather at the shores of mighty Lake Hovsgol in Northern Mongolia for a very special experience: the 16th Mongolia Sunrise to Sunset 42km and 100km ultra trail marathon.
Runners with an appetite for a unique adventure can book travel packages and enjoy some truly majestic views: A lakeside single track through woods and over windblown lowlands; steep, rocky mountain passes with spectacular views; river valleys and marshy forests; seas of wildflowers. The accumulated elevation gain/loss for the marathon distance is 2,255 meters, while 100km course is 3,365 meters.
“It is a whole week of exploration with horseback riding, kayaking, hiking, fishing, sleeping in traditional Mongolian Gers – and of course running”, says race director Nicolas Musy.
Preserving the Hovsgol National Park
The Mongolia Sunrise to Sunset is organised on a non-profit basis. All proceeds are used to keep Hovsgol National Park pristine and to support the culture of the local population via the ecoLeap Foundation registered in Geneva, Switzerland.
“We want to keep this pristine mountain area as beautiful as it is now. That is why we fund a litter control project and its ongoing operation including hiring park rangers, providing eco-friendly garbage bags and raising awareness nation-wide through TV ads and education of local children and families”, explains race director Nicolas Musy.
Experiencing the Unique Mongolian Culture
It is not only the pristine nature that makes this part of the world so special. It is also the unique culture of the nomads and their way of life. As such, ecoLeap Foundation has engaged the local community in the event, ranging from hiring local help to hiring local doctors supervise aid stations, or even simply encouraging locals to participate in the race.
The race on 6 August will be as challenging as it is beautiful. Runners pass by yak herds and wild horses, shamanistic Ovoos as well as Mongolian yurts and horsemen, in one of the most pristine and spectacular areas on this planet.
Amongst participants, the extremely challenging race is known as the “World’s Most Beautiful 42k and 100k Run”. Seeing the Mongolian sunrise and sunset in person would be very special indeed!
The 16th Mongolia Sunrise to Sunset 42km and 100km ultra trail run will take place in the week of 2-9 August 2014.
