Illustrative image (Photo: bienphong.com.vn) The tournament, limited to 250 runners, is the latest mountain race announcedin the country.
Organised by the Tay Giang District authorities and TAAD Group, the 18km routewill bring competitors through the jungle, streams, and moss fields beforereaching the peak of K'lang Mountain, which is home to the thousand-year-oldforest of azalea.
Athletes will vie for top places and a total of 72 million VND (3,000 USD) formen and women in two age groups from 18 to under 40 and over 40.
Organisers will also deliver presents to the oldest and youngest marathoner.Significantly, the last competitor to the finish line will also receive acomplimentary gift for their 'never give-up' spirit.
All cash collected from the race will be given to the Tay Giang district's charityfund for 140 orphan children.
The marathon is part of the district's two-day culture and sports event.
Before the race day, athletes will have a chance to join different activitieswith local residents, mainly Co Tu ethnics.
They will learn more about conservation activities by helping to raiseawareness about protecting the environment and nature.
Local people believe that azalea is a treasure from heaven. The flowers andtrees cover an area of 450ha on K'lang Mountain, about 2,000m above sea level.No other kind of tree can get in this area of azalea.
A traditional craft and agricultural produce fair will be organised tointroduce local specialities to visitors. In addition, Co Tu ethnic artisanswill be at the fair to demonstrate their wood carving, basket and handloomweaving skills.
A photo contest exhibition about Tay Giang's people and nature will givevisitors more information about the destination.
Typical cuisine cooked by residents will bring a new taste to foodiescompeting.
After the race, a music and dance performance will be organised on New Year'sEve with the participation of famed artists.
They are Siu Black, a celebrated rocker from the Central Highlands; Danh Zoram,a young singer from Tay Giang district; The Kollect, a four-member band from Hanoiwith their unique style of music; and DJ Ez, who will fill the night withelectronic melodies combining modern music and beautiful ethnic materials.
Artists and participants will also participate in a countdown to welcome theNew Year.
Other activities at the event are camping, kayaking and a campfire which is anindispensable part of every festival in the highlands, especially for the Co Tucommunity. Everyone gathers to sing and dance, bringing a special experiencefor each visitor to the event./.
VNA
