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N Korea opens Pyongyang marathon to foreign tourists

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작성자 최고관리자 작성일14-04-04 18:32 조회4,420회 댓글0건

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N Korea opens Pyongyang marathon to foreign tourists

 

 

Voice of Russia  |  04-04-2014

 

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For the first time in history North Korean authorities have allowed non-professional runners from all over the world to take part in the annual marathon in the country’s capital, known officially as the Mangyongdae Prize International Marathon. The race includes a full marathon, limited to world-class, invitation-only athletes, a half marathon and a 10-kilometer run.

 

Demand to participate is strong. Tourist companies claim they received plenty of requests to sign up. Reportedly, around 200 foreign runners are already heading to Pyongyang to take part in the historic event.

 

The decision to open the marathon to recreational runners is viewed as an attempt to promote tourism.

 

"I think a lot of the attraction is the 'Pyongyang' part rather than the 'marathon' part," says Simon Cockerell, a Beijing-based agent for the Koryo Tours travel agency. The main reason to take part in the event, Mr. Cockerell points out, is to "cause a bit of cognitive dissonance in friends of theirs when they tell them they ran a marathon in North Korea."

 

Kim Jong-un, North Korean leader, is clearly keen to boost the nation's sporting profile, the Telegraph emphasizes. For instance, earlier this year he met with US basketball star Dennis Rodman.

 

North Korea's government also announced a plan to create special trade and tourism zones across the country and unveiled its first luxury ski resort, aimed largely at luring ski enthusiasts from abroad.

 

The event set for April 13 coincides with commemorations of the birthday of North Korea's first leader, Kim Il Sung, on April 15.

 

The only requirement for marathon runners, taking the 26-mile tour of North Korea's capital, is that they finish in four hours. Those who’ll fail will be escorted back to the stadium.

 

It remains unclear whether the initiative will be permanent and amateur runners will be allowed next year.

 

http://voiceofrussia.com/news/2014_04_04/N-Korea-opens-Pyongyang-marathon-to-foreign-tourists-0113/

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