Event marks second consecutive UNESCO revalidation of Mudeungsan Geopark
The Jeonnam-Gwangju Integrated Special City will co-host the 5th Mudeungsan Geo Marathon on Oct. 10 with Damyang-gun, Hwasun-gun and other local authorities to mark the second consecutive UNESCO revalidation of the Mudeungsan World Geopark.
The race will draw 1,650 runners from across the country. Starting at 8 a.m. from the public parking lot in front of Kumho Hwasun Spa Resort in Hwasun-gun, the course passes through Inam intersection in Gasahmunhak-myeon, Damyang-gun, before turning around at Dagok intersection in Hwasun-gun and returning to the start.
The event offers five categories: a 30-kilometer race, a half marathon (21.0975 km), a 10-kilometer run, a 5.18-kilometer run and a 2-kilometer walk. The 2-kilometer walking course takes participants through the Seoyuri dinosaur fossil site alongside a geopark guide, who provides on-site commentary and leads activities along the way.
The event will also feature a geopark experience and promotional booth introducing key activities of the Mudeungsan UNESCO World Geopark, whose international standing was again recognized through the latest revalidation.
Participants who take part in hands-on programs and collect stamps can enter a mini quiz contest for commemorative prizes, and keyring gifts made using Mudeungsan watermelon stickers will also be given out. A photo contest — in which participants find and photograph geopark logos, characters and geological landmarks around the venue — will add to the festivities.
The event will be attended by Yun Yeo-chun, vice president of the Korea Athletics Federation, and Kim Sung-han, former Kia Tigers director, making it a day to watch, run and enjoy.
sij@heraldcorp.com
