The 2nd TAAN International Langtang Marathon 2017: A Celebration of Resilience and Tourism Introduction:

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The 2nd TAAN International Langtang Marathon, held on May 19, 2017, showcased the resilience of the Langtang region and marked a significant milestone in Nepal's adventure tourism sector. Organised by the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN), this event aimed to revitalise tourism in Langtang, which had been severely affected by the devastating earthquake in 2015.


The marathon started in Kyanjin Gomba (3,870 m) in the Langtang Valley and finished at Dhunche, covering a distance of 42.5 kilometres. The event saw participation from 102 runners, both domestic and international. Hom Lal Shrestha claimed first place among men, finishing in 3 hours, 34 minutes, and 5 seconds, while Sarita Basi led the women’s category with a time of 5 hours and 13 minutes. The winners received cash prizes of NPR 100,000 for first place, NPR 75,000 for second, and NPR 50,000 for third, along with medal certificates.

The event was inaugurated by TAAN spokesperson Surya Bahadur Ghimire, who emphasised that Langtang is now a safe and welcoming destination for trekkers. It highlighted the region's recovery and encouraged local tourism entrepreneurs to restart their businesses. During the closing ceremony, Keshav Kumar Bista, Member Secretary of the National Sports Council, expressed his commitment to providing government support for similar initiatives in the future.

The marathon route, which included iconic locations like Lama Hotel and Sherpa Gaon, was designed to showcase the natural and cultural beauty of Langtang while promoting sports tourism. It also demonstrated the resilience of the local community and their efforts to rebuild after the earthquake.


Key Details:

• Route: The 42.5-kilometer marathon began at Kyanjin Gompa in Langtang National Park and concluded at Syabrubesi, passing through Thangsyap, Ghoratabela, Rimche, Sherpa Gaun, Khangim, Bridim, Lingling, and Dhunche.
• Participants: Approximately 200 runners, including both Nepali and international athletes, participated in the event.
• Winners:
o Men's Category: Hom Lal Shrestha from the Nepal Army
o Women's Category: Sarita Basi from the Nepal Army
• Prize Money: The top three finishers in each category received cash prizes of Rs 100,000, Rs 75,000, and Rs 50,000, respectively.

Objectives:

• Promote Langtang as a premier adventure tourism destination.
• Revive the local economy through increased tourist arrivals.
• Showcase the region's unique cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty.
• Highlight Nepal's potential to host international sporting events.
• Raise awareness about the importance of environmental conservation in mountain 
        tourism.

The Pivotal Role of Surya Bahadur Ghimire



Mr. Surya Bahadur Ghimire, then Spokesperson of TAAN, played a crucial role in the success of the marathon. His leadership and dedication were instrumental in:
• Conceptualization and Planning: Mr. Ghimire spearheaded the initiative, envisioning the marathon as a catalyst for Langtang's recovery. He collaborated with stakeholders, including local communities, government agencies, and tourism operators, to ensure the event's feasibility and alignment with the region's needs.
• Coordination and Leadership: He effectively coordinated with various agencies, ensuring smooth logistical operations, including route preparation, participant registration, and safety measures.
• Advocacy and Promotion: As TAAN's spokesperson, Mr. Ghimire promoted the marathon nationally and internationally, garnering significant media attention. His proactive communication efforts played a vital role in attracting both domestic and international participants.
• Community Engagement: Recognizing the importance of local involvement, Mr. Ghimire ensured that the marathon benefited the local community. He facilitated the integration of local businesses and residents, providing them with opportunities to participate in event-related services, such as accommodation and guiding.
• Environmental and Safety Oversight: Mr. Ghimire prioritised environmental sustainability and participant safety. He advocated for eco-friendly practices and ensured the implementation of robust safety protocols, including emergency response mechanisms.
• Strategic Vision: By framing the marathon as a symbol of resilience and a platform for sustainable tourism development, Mr. Ghimire demonstrated his strategic vision for the future of the Langtang region.


Event Highlights:

• Diverse Participation: The marathon attracted a diverse field of participants, including both domestic and international athletes.
• Challenging and Scenic Route: The 42.2 km route, starting from Kyanjin Gompa and culminating at Syabrubesi, showcased the breathtaking beauty of the Langtang region while presenting a challenging course for participants.
• Cultural Immersion: The event seamlessly integrated local culture, featuring traditional dances, local delicacies, and cultural exhibitions, providing participants with a unique cultural experience.
• Collaborative Success: The marathon's success was a result of strong collaboration between TAAN, the Nepal Tourism Board, Langtang National Park, and various trekking companies.


Impact of the Marathon:

• Tourism Revival: The marathon successfully brought Langtang back into the spotlight, attracting tourists and contributing significantly to the region's economic recovery.

• Economic Empowerment: Increased tourist arrivals provided a much-needed boost to the local economy, benefiting local businesses, including lodges, restaurants, and guides.
• Environmental Awareness: The event raised awareness about the importance of environmental conservation in mountain tourism, encouraging responsible travel practices.
• International Recognition: The successful organisation of the marathon showcased Nepal's potential to host international sporting events, further enhancing the country's image as an adventure tourism destination.



Conclusion:

The 2nd TAAN International Langtang Marathon 2017 was a remarkable success, highlighting both the resilience of the Langtang region and the role of tourism in driving economic recovery. Mr. Surya Bahadur Ghimire's visionary leadership, strategic planning, and unwavering commitment were crucial in making this event happen. By successfully organising the marathon, Mr Surya Bahadur Ghimire not only contributed to the revival of Langtang but also showcased Nepal's potential as a premier destination for adventure tourism and cultural experiences.





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