The Wall of China Marathon is a definite must if you into tough marathons that include climbing up and down 5,164 steps – not all the same width and height I might add – and seeing and experiencing the magnitude of the Wall of China. I had always wanted to go to China and the marathon presented an opportunity to explore Beijing, have my first taste of China and run in one of the more “challenging” races in the world.
In order to register for the race as a South African, you will need to sign up for one of the tour packages with Penthouse Travel Sporting Tours. We decided on the 7 day one which included trips to the Forbidden City, Tian An Men Square and the Temple of Heaven. Personally, Andy and I are not fans of the “everyone on”, “everyone off” tour protocol but in the end we were happy to be bussed around, shown the sights and have the chance to share the experience with others who were there for the same reason.
Beijing is beautiful despite the air pollution that makes it look a little grey. Roses are evident everywhere – their bright colours decorate the city at every corner. We loved the restaurants and food markets where everything that can possibly be eaten is on display – Andy couldn’t help but sample the gastronomic delight of scorpion-on-a-stick!! Not sure he will be doing that again!!
The marathon has been running since 1999 and attracts a field of 2,500 runners from all over the world. The event offers three distances: A marathon, half marathon and a 8.5km Fun Run. Must say, the fun run started to look like a good idea as temperatures on the day rose to 37 Degrees Celsius – an unnaturally hot day. Part of the tour includes a “Great Wall Marathon Inspection” where family members or friends accompanying you can get a taste of what it is like. Not sure if this is psychologically a good idea or not.
I’m not going to lie – the Marathon is a pretty difficult run. The first few kilometers are tough as you head out of Ying Yang Square and take a steep road to the entrance of the Great Wall. The scenery is magnificent but you will need to keep your head down as the steps are all different widths and heights. It took nearly 2 hours for me to do the first 8km before heading out into dusty farmlands and nearby villages to complete the next 26km. Back in Yin and Yang Square Andy was over performing as the official spectator and comedian for our tour group of 20 runners. He shouted words of encouragement, took pics, threatened to do yoga naked in the middle of the Yin and Yang Square and fed an untold number of beers to himself and the other runners. By the time I came hobbling in 2 minutes after the cut-off he was as exhausted as me. It was clear at that point that neither of us were as fit as we should have been for the challenges that lay in front of us that day.
So don’t think about it – do it – book now for the Wall of China Marathon!
No Comments