Ladakh sets Guinness record for world's highest frozen lake half marathon at Pangong
Ladakh has scripted its name in the Guinness World Records for completing the world’s highest frozen lake half marathon at an altitude of 13,862 feet at the famed Pangong Lake.
Amid sub-zero temperatures, the record-breaking four-hour marathon featuring 75 participants, covered a distance of 21 kms from Lukung and ended at Maan village on Monday, an official said.
The majestic Pangong Lake—spread over 700-sq km across the India-China border—freezes over during bone chilling winters as the region records temperatures 30 degrees below zero.
The marathon christened “Last Run” raise awareness about climate change and its ill-effects on the Himalayas was organized by the Adventure Sports Foundation of Ladakh (ASFL) in collaboration with Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council, Leh, Tourism Department, Ladakh and Leh district administration.
Leh District Development Commissioner (DDC) Shrikant Balasaheb Suse told reporters that the Pangong frozen lake half marathon is now officially registered in the Guinness book of world records.
The senior official said that the marathon, besides spreading the message of ecological awareness among the stakeholders through sports, also aimed at promoting sustainable winter tourism in border villages of eastern Ladakh to generate livelihood opportunities for residents especially in winters which is part of the Centre’s ‘vibrant village programme’ in the Union Territory.
The marathon, flagged off by LAHDC (Leh) Chief Executive Councillor Tashi Gyalson had five energy stations were set up along the route, consisting of energy drinks, medical teams and oxygen support, along with mobile ambulances.
The DDC revealed that all 75 participants underwent a rigorous six-day acclimatization training, in accordance with the SOPs laid down by the administration. Additionally, all participants underwent comprehensive medical examination to ensure their fitness for the grueling run.
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He said that the Indian Army and the ITBP provided active medical and logistics support to make the marathon a success, adding that Union Territory Disaster Response Force personnel and Ladakh mountain guide association personnel were deployed along the route to ensure safety of the runners. The route was decided after proper inspection and size of the frozen layer of ice.
Cash prizes were awarded to the men and women who secured the first three places in their respective divisions while other participants were also felicitated with medals and certificates at the concluding ceremony of the event.
Guinness officials on the occasion issued a certificate to LAHDC Leh and ASFL certifying the run as “Highest Altitude Frozen Half Marathon.”
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