The first ever Patagonian International Marathon is taking place this year! At 8am on Sunday September 23rd 2012, runners will gather from across the world to compete in the highly anticipated marathon in Torres del Paine National Park, Chile. With the slogan Running for and in Patagonia, the marathon is organized by NIGSA (Nomadas International Group SA), the Patagonian destination management team behind the Patagonian Expedition Race (featured in National Geographic’s 2012 ‘Ten great races in amazing places’).
With pristine nature and crisp clean air, the marathon promises to be a fresh new challenge for runners looking to compete in the scenic Patagonian wilderness instead of a concrete city centre - mountain peaks and glacier walls instead of skyscrapers! The best part? There are 3 different race lengths so everyone can participate, regardless of whether they’re a full marathon runner (42k), a half marathon runner (21k) or a quarter marathon runner (10k). The finish point for all groups is Las Torres hotel, just a 15 minute walk from EcoCamp Patagonia which is being offered as part of the marathon’s eco package.
EcoCamp Patagonia is the region’s first fully sustainable hotel and has gained a reputation for its green technology as well as community spirit since its opening in 2001. With panoramic views of the granite Torres del Paine, EcoCamp’s geodesic domes are ideally placed on the hillside next to the race HQ at Las Torres hotel.
Runners staying at EcoCamp begin their official eco package itinerary on Friday September 21st, being driven from Punta Arenas airport to the centrally located 4* Diego de Almagro hotel in Punta Arenas. After a day exploring the famous port city and enjoying the sea front views from the hotel (maybe even a pre-race run along the promenade) competitors complete their race registration and enjoy a good night’s sleep. The following day comes the scenic journey to Torres del Paine National Park with a lunch stop en route in the scenic fishing town of Puerto Natales before the final leg of the journey towards the first view of the majestic granite peaks of the Torres del Paine. Runners will be met by staff at EcoCamp and given time to explore the green eco village with its cozy Community Domes before heading down the hill to hotel Las Torres for the event exposition evening.
After a good night’s sleep in EcoCamp Standard Domes and an early breakfast it’s race time! Competitors will be driven to the start point (depending on the distance they’ll be running) and after running across the Patagonian plains, enjoying the mountain views, they’ll arrive elated (/exhausted!) at the finishing line at Las Torres to enjoy a buffet. Later on there’s a traditional Patagonian barbecue and prize giving ceremony. After a well-deserved night back at EcoCamp it’s time to drive back to Punta Arenas to continue the onward journey.
To participate in the first ever Patagonian International Marathon and enjoy green lodging at EcoCamp Patagonia, contact our travel consultants now to reserve your spot.
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