Published on, Sep 12
GUWAHATI: Kaziranga is all set to welcome a new sporting challenge as the Kaziranga Ultra Trails Run will be held against the picturesque backdrop of the national park on December 27. The announcement was made at a press conference at a city hotel here on Saturday, where the organisers also unveiled the official merchandise and medals of the event.
Beyond the road, into the wild
An ultra trail run is an off-road footrace covering distances longer than the traditional marathon distance of 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Unlike conventional road races, trail runs take participants through dirt tracks, mountain paths and rugged natural terrain. The Kaziranga Ultra Trail Run will be organised by the Kaziranga Endurance Foundation in association with the Assam Tourism Development Corporation (ATDC) and Mind Over Miles.
Boost to tourism and long-distance running
The press conference was attended by Kaziranga Endurance Foundation president Mriganka Hazarika, secretary Prativu Dutta, treasurer Dipjyoti Barua, ultra runner Dr Pranami Chakravarty and wildlife rescuer Manoj Gogoi, who is also an adviser to the foundation. Addressing the media, Hazarika said the race would not only promote long-distance running in the State but also give a boost to tourism and the local economy. A good number of participants are expected from different parts of the country as well as abroad. He also added that the event would be held annually.
Three distances, one ultimate challenge
The competition will be held in three categories — 50 km, 25 km and 10 km. Each category will feature an Open section, along with three age groups: 35–45 years, 45–55 years and 55 years and above.
Bigger miles, bigger rewards
The male and female winners of the 50-km Open category will each receive a cash prize of Rs 50,000 along with medals. The first-place winners in the 25-km and 10-km categories will receive Rs 20,000 and Rs 15,000, respectively. Separate prize money will also be awarded to winners in the three age-group categories.
Participation Registration
Registration for the event is already open and will close on December 14. The entry fee is Rs 2,999 for the 50-km race, Rs 1,750 for the 25-km race and Rs 1,199 for the 10-km race.
PHOTO CAPTION:
Brand ambassadors of the Kaziranga Ultra Trails run unveil the medals of the event in Guwahati on Saturday. Photo: Subhamoy Bhattacharjee.