Running for a cause in Luang Prabang
A new event in Asia will see the first ever half marathon being held at the World Heritage Site of Luang Prabang in Laos.
The Luang Prabang Half Marathon on October 5 -"La Procession" – is a charity race that the organisers and sponsors hope will enrich the lives of the more marginalised residents of the surrounding areas.
The race is named after the procession of monks that walk through town every morning, collecting offerings from the townspeople.
"Every day in Luang Prabang begins with giving to others," says founding race organiser and HSBC Equities director, Michael Gilmore, "so it’s only appropriate that the focus of our race should be on giving too.
"All of the race costs are covered by corporate sponsors so that 100% of the participants’ entry fees go directly to the charity.
"Raising funds for a local cause is very much the key priority of this run, not an after-thought," Gilmore said.
This new structure will see the usual race-fees be replaced by donations made direct and through online fundraising pages in an effort to ensure more of the money goes where it is needed.
The race is limited to only 500 international runners so as not to overload the town’s infrastructure and to be respectful of the local community.
The race-route will pass many of Luang Prabang’s historical sites, and also echo the monks’ daily procession. While it is promoted as a half-marathon, there will also be 14km and 7km races to ensure all family members are able to participate.
Race organisers have chosen to donate all proceeds from the race and its fund-raising to Friends International, an enterprise that helps create futures for marginalised children and youths across South East Asia.
Amanresorts is the founding sponsor of the race.
To register for the race go to – www.luangprabanghalfmarathon.com
Ian Jarrett
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