A not so normal marathon!

Have you ever imagined what it would be like to run at the driest desert in the world?  

Yes, there is an event named Volcano Marathon, which takes place every year at San Pedro de Atacama, in the heart of Atacama Desert, Chile. 

Athletes from all over the world take part in this event. The marathon begins at an altitude of 4,475 metres, making it the highest desert marathon in the world. 

In such a burning atmosphere, where one cannot even breathe properly, the competitors push their limits and challenge themselves to complete the race. Although it is one of the most grueling and exhausting event, the spectacular panoramic views of about 10 volcanoes brings an altogether different experience as well.

Sportskafun brings you some details about the race :-

• The marathon begins near the Tropic of Capricorn, adjacent to Lascar Volcano, one of the most active volcanoes in Chile.
• Race takes place in two halfs. 
• First half of the race takes place on dirt roads, at an altitude of about 4000 metres with manned stations at 10 kms and 21.1 kms (half-marathon).
• After reaching the 3rd checkpoint at 30 kms, athletes ascend 2 km off road. 
•  At 355 km they will come across a rough terrain of about 5 kms with a gorge alongside. They need to watch out their steps here.
• The finish line is located at an altitude of 3603 metres where the temperature can be 25 C+.

This not so simple event takes place after athletes are acclimatised with the conditions at San Pedro, which is at 2600 metres. Training runs, along with visits to nearby Salt Mountain Range, Valley of the Moon and Valley of Death. 

The Valley of the Moon, looks amazingly beautiful, at the sunset when the lunar shapes of valley are seen under the striking colors of red, pink and gold at the sunset.

Valley of Death as the name suggests, resembles Mars-like gigantic sand dunes and huge rocks, with NASA experimenting their tests before planning any mission to Mars not coming as a surprise.

Source : Volcano Marathon

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