Listed in the Guinness Book of Records as ‘the highest marathon in the world’ the Everest marathon is a gruelling 26.2 mile race over rough terrain. The start line is just below Everest base camp at 5184m. The course winds it’s way down through the mountains traversing boulders, scree, stone staircases, exposed paths, forest trails and narrow suspension bridges to the finish in the sherpa town of Namche Bazaar at 3446m.
With altitude sickness a major risk competitors spend 26 days in Nepal with 15 days trekking to the start in order to acclimatise themselves prior to race day. Experience of mountain, cross country or fell running is essential in order to be offered a place.
The race is organised by Bufo Ventures Limited with all profits going to the Everest Marathon Fund, a UK registered charity which supports education and health projects in Nepal. Runners also raise money through sponsorship with, usually, 50% going to the Everest Marathon Fund and 50% to a charity in the runners home country.
The current record time for men is 3 hours 50 minutes and for women 4 hours 35. A big challenge even for the most adventurous of sportsmen so good luck if you’re aiming to beat that!
The Everest Marathon is scheduled for November 2011. Contact Bufo Ventures for full details of the trip and other adventure travel enquiries regarding trekking in Nepal.
