In Tibet, half-marathon poses high-altitude challenges

The 2023 Lhasa Half-Marathon unfolded in Lhasa, Tibet, on Sunday, featuring 4,000 runners. The event included a half-marathon, a 10-kilometer run, and a 5-km health run.

With an altitude of nearly 3,650 meters above sea level, the high-altitude half-marathon in Lhasa has brought new challenges and experiences for participants involving low oxygen.

During the competitions, the organizing committee arranged cultural performances and exhibitions of intangible cultural heritage at the starting and ending points. Meanwhile, three service stations were set up along the routes, and performances such as the traditional Tibetan circles dance, gymnastics, fitness exercises, tai chi and tai chi sword were presented for the athletes.

After fierce competition, Sonam Tsering won the men's half-marathon in 70 minutes and 3 seconds, and Tsering Tsomo won the women's half-marathon in 83 minutes and 48 seconds.

"I am very happy to win in my hometown today," said Sonam Tsering. "I have also participated in a half-marathon in Shanghai and in the national marathon championship in the past, and my grades were all within the top 10."

He added: "Nowadays, more residents in Tibet are interested in doing sports and fitness, so we see many running groups and clubs in various activities."

The competition also included post-competition recovery areas, medical service stations, oxygen supplies and post-race oxygen tanks to assist athletes in their physical recovery.

As the highest altitude marathon certified in China, the Lhasa Half-Marathon Organizing Committee requires participants to have corresponding experience in sub-plateau or plateau competition within two years.