Why do people run? Most do it because of the health benefits they can gain from working their heart, lungs and muscles, all at the same time. Some run to race; others to socialize or be out in the open air. What all runners share, however, is a singular sense of accomplishment. Running gets you from here to there and epitomises what the sport is all about: the journey.
Moreover, running can reduce stress and even help alleviate symptoms of depression. It’s no surprise that running can improve our minds and bodies.
This year, the 4th Kalaw Trail Run presented by Run Myanmar will surely serve as a rare gem for all athletes out there. The event was started as a small project in 2015 with just 53 runners, and in 2018 it grew to a race with over 300 entrants. This year the number is expected to be over 400, including semi-amateur trail runners from around the world.
As Myanmar quickly opens up to tourism and the number of foreigners visiting increases each month, the unassuming country town of Kalaw has rapidly become a tourist hotspot.
Surrounded by peaks of mountains and flowing hills, the farmlands are an ideal landscape to inspire any energetic jog or light sprint.
“This year’s event is more exciting and challenging for the runners as we’ve added Myanmar’s first ever Ultra Marathon. One amazing thing is that there are many international enthusiasts coming to Myanmar just for this event,” said a representative of the Run Myanmar Organization.
This year also sees an equal number of both local and international participants.
“I really want the people who exercise or like to run or who likes big challenges to try participating in this event. It’s the challenge of the year from a fitness point of view but also serves as the bridge to raise the locals’ awareness in sports,” he said.
The Kalaw Trail Run has gotten bigger and better each year, and has become an important tourism initiative. It is highly supported by local residents who play an integral part in its staging.
Each year the event takes place in mid-December, when the weather is cooler and the air is fresh. This year the running will take place over two days of December – from 7th to 8th. Event organizers will also introduce an RFID chip timing system, providing participants with more accurate finishing times for each running category.
There are four category options at this year’s event: 4km, 12km, 25km and 51km distances respectively. The 4km is a fun run aimed to encourage participation for new runners and children. The 12km loop is perfect for walkers and joggers to enjoy stunning views from the hills to the east of Kalaw. The 25 km course will be a challenging yet scenic run, as the participants have to pass over multiple terrains.
However, the ultra-marathon 51 km will be exceptional for only well-trained athletes who have trained for 21 km distances. Participants for the 51km marathon have already been chosen, but interested persons can still register for the other three running events.
The Kalaw Trail Run is sponsored by Kalaw Heritage Hotel, KBZ Pay, as well as 100 Plus, Krislite, Sport Gear Trading, OMGoodness, X sport Outdoor Gear, Uncharted Horizon, Kalaw Hill Lodge, Ride Behind Kalaw and M.E.M.S- Myanmar Emergency Medical Services.
“We are proud to share our support for the fourth edition of the Kalaw Trail Run, and share a similar vision to help drive the development of tourism in the region. As domestic travel booms, KBZ Pay makes the travel experience even more convenient and safer for both local travelers and tourists. By using KBZ Pay, travelers are empowered to enjoy their trips without worrying about holding too much cash in hand while participating in the running event. We wish the Run Myanmar Team and all participants a successful event!” said Mike Denoma, CEO of KBZ Bank.
This year sees the very first Ultra Marathon staged.
“The ultra 51km is a challenging course with a total elevation of 2,075m and its highest point at 1,607m above sea level. Whilst not long by international ultra-distance standards, the course is certainly tough enough to test most trail runners. We hope the Ultra Marathon becomes an annual event as part of the KTR and will act as a catalyst for other ultra-trail runs to be organized in the future,” said Ole Rehlaender, General Manager of Kalaw Heritage Hotel and member of the Run Myanmar team.
Running is a growing sport in Myanmar. Runs such as the Kalaw Trail Run, Yoma Yangon Marathon, Pocari Sweat Run, and others are creating interest for Myanmar people in a sport that not only provides real health benefits but also creates a community of like-minded individuals. The events will be helping to promote sports among Myanmar citizens, as well as leading the way to improve the Myanmar Tourism Industry.
The deadline for those interested in registering is November 24. Registrations can be made via the official Run Myanmar website, under the “Events” section at the top of the page. Cash payment are accepted at X Sports Outdoor Gear, situated in No 7, Pyay Road, Myaynigone, near Padonmar Park, Sanchaung Township, Yangon; and No 6, 78th Street between 32th Street and 33th Street, Chan Aye Thar Zan Township, Mandalay. Bank transfers and credit card payments are also accepted Visa and MasterCard.
The registration fees for each category vary as follows. As for Ultra-Marathon runner (51km) locals will be charged K80,000, and the international participants K90,000. For the 25km run, Myanmar citizens will pay K65,000, and internationals K75,000. Registrations for the 12km event are K47,000 for locals, and K49,000 for internationals.
The most exciting 4km fun run/walk is free for children under 10 years and only K7,000 will be charged for both Myanmar and international runners. The top placed runners will also received awards. Although these awards are not explicitly stated, they are surely not to be in cash but something more memorable from the Run Myanmar Organization.