GUAM INTERNATIONAL MARATHON
More than 2,000 runners flocked to Tumon for last year’s inaugural race. Though only in its second year, this young marathon is already proving to be one of Guam’s most prestigious running events.
Words by Katrina Palanca
Illustration by Paulo Correa
This doesn’t have to be the start of a career in running marathons… but it very well could be. At least, that’s how race organizers designed the Guam International Marathon. Sponsored by the Guam Visitors Bureau along with the Pacific Islands Club and United Airlines, this race is the only marathon on Guam that is certified by the International Association of Athletic Federations and the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races.
Of the more than 2,000 runners that participated last year, about half of them flew in from off island –a clear sign that sports tourism could be the next best thing. Aside from the race’s obvious focus on health and fitness, the Guam International Marathon is about promoting our island. The proceeds will benefit the Island –wide Beautification Task Force and the Tourism Education Council, but we don’t think first-time visitors will have any trouble falling in love. With a course that starts in our tourist hub, passes through our historical capital and, runs along our highway’s breathtaking coast, there is no better introduction to the beauty of our island than to run the race.
© 2014 Paulo Correa. All rights reserved. My works may not be copied, edited, published, uploaded
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