One of the most beautiful destinations in India, Ladakh has officially enlisted its name to the Guinness Book of World Records recently. Ladakh made this historical achievement after hosting its maiden half marathon in the frozen Pangong Tso lake at a high altitude of 13,862 feet. Named “Last Run”, this grand marathon was organised by the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council and Adventure Sports Foundation of Ladakh on 20 February with a total of 75 participants.
Ladakh Hosted The Highest Frozen Lake Half Marathon In The World!
Ladakh wrote this outstanding history in the Guinness Book of World Records by conducting the marathon at such a freezing temperature in the Pangong Tso. Not only the Last Run is the first frozen lake marathon in India but it is also the highest event of its kind in the entire world. And hosting the iconic half marathon of 21 km at such an extraordinary venue successfully is the reason behind Ladakh bagging the prestigious world record.
The journey of this 21 km marathon began from Lukung and took about 4 hours to reach its final destination, Maan village. No doubt this was quite a difficult and tiresome journey to finish the long-running event on a frozen lake but the good news is that none of the participants suffered any injury. According to a report by Times Travel, Shrikant Balasaheb Suse, the Leh District Development Commissioner also shared that no one was injured.
Why Is The Event Called The “Last Run”?
The name “Last Run” might seem different to many people but there is a strong message behind naming the marathon. Climate changes and global warming are very much evident and we can experience how the climate is changing rapidly. The rise in temperature is something that everyone is quite concerned about. With this, they wanted to spread this message about awareness and how it’s important to protect nature and the Himalayas.
The marathon also focused on encouraging people and tourists to visit the villages in the remote corners of Ladakh. With aiming of boost in tourism, promoting winter tourism also gives the locals a chance to get an income source.
Cover Image Courtesy: Pixabay
First Published: February 23, 2023 10:53 AM