The Kenting International Marathon, which was interrupted last year due to the pandemic, will make a strong comeback on November 5th this year. Compared to the cold and wet winter in the northern part of Taiwan, Kenting offers a relatively warm and comfortable climate.
The event includes a full marathon (42K), half marathon (21K), 12K challenge, and a 3K parent-child category, allowing participants to choose according to their fitness levels. It is the preferred choice for a vacation-style road race.
This year, the event is sponsored by Japan Airlines, and participants can win round-trip flight tickets between Taipei and Tokyo through a lucky draw. The top 3 male and female runners in the full and half marathon categories will each receive a round-trip flight ticket.
The organizers of the Taiwan Triathlon Company stated that the 2021 Kenting International Marathon in Pingtung attracted numerous elite runners. The picturesque Kenting course received high praise, but unfortunately, it was interrupted last year due to the pandemic.
The company has been working persistently to bring the event back and has recommended Kenting in a Japanese travel magazine to representatives of Japan Airlines. With the sponsorship from Japan Airlines, they hope to leverage the airline’s global marketing and reputation to showcase the natural beauty of Kenting to the world, blending the charm of both mountains and the sea.
The Taiwan Triathlon Company stated that Kenting, which is situated by the mountains and the sea, is known as the “Eastern Hawaii” with its vibrant and passionate atmosphere. There are four different race categories of varying lengths available for participants to choose from, catering to a wider range of age groups and offering opportunities for personal challenges.
In the full marathon category this year, covering 42 kilometers, runners will head south along National Highway 26 to the southernmost point of Taiwan, Eluanbi, then return along the scenic Jialeshuei Coastal Road on the east coast.
The beauty of both the mountains and the sea within Kenting National Park will be in full view. For the family and kids’ category, the course is more gentle and of shorter distance, providing a perfect opportunity for a running holiday.
12 km route of Kenting International Marathon
With mountains on one side and the sea on the other, the visual experience is truly enjoyable. However, the routes have their ups and downs, posing a significant test of stamina. The challenge is not to be underestimated!