Life time experience event
If you are adventure runner, this event is specially designed for you.
The event is well organized. You will stay in Everest Base Camp (EBC at 17,598ft) for two nights before the run. The marathon starts from EBC. It finishes at Namche Bazaar at 11,286ft.
There are a few challenging items should be noted:
1. The high altitude may cause some people unable to proceed.
2. The trail may not suitable for running, rather than power walking. Some trail segments are all random rocks. One has to carefully land each step to avoid injury. There were some injuries along the way.
3. It is not all down hills. We have to ascending about 4,000ft in the process of having a total of 6,000 ~ 7,000ft altitude drop.
4. Above 14,000ft, it is above tree lines, where the wind is chilly, strong, and the temperature are cold even in a sunny day. Prepare to wear not your normal running gears.
5. The food in the food station is just power bar. You may need to prepare your own food.
6. The time needed to complete the entire course is more than 2 times of your street race.
7. It is very primitive life in the mountain. All meals are almost vegan except eggs and cheese.
A few notable experiences.
1. It is best to use the agent in your area to register the event. For me, the north American agent is very helpful.
2. If you join the event trekking tour, the trekking ascends about a maximum of 1,300ft altitude gain per day. There are a few rest days along the way to help acclamation. The runners experienced some 13,000ft height before had no issue to adapt the altitude change. The tour hires porters to carry up to 15kg or your luggage up and down. The guiders are very helpful.
3. All runners had the chance to stay in EBC for two nights. This is an opportunity most of non-peak expedition trips would not be able to offer.
4. There are a few water stations along the way during the marathon day. You do not need to carry your water for the entire course. On regular trekking day, we make tea / lunch stops at small restaurants/shops along the way. It is normally not more than two hours trekking distance between those restaurant /shops.
5. There are flags to show the course on the running day. Those are very helpful to follow. On regular trekking day, there are guiders to lead the way and to make sure no body is far away behind.
6. The life in the mountain is simple and relax: sleep -- eat -- trekking -- eat -- sleep.
6. The scenery along the way are stunning beautiful and unforgettable.