The Great Wall Marathon May 19th 2012, China - 5,164 steps into history The Great Wall Marathon May 19th 2012, China - 5,164 steps into history
Click here to download 2011 Great Wall Marathon Guidebook
FAQ
 |
1.What is the running distance on the Wall, and what is the distance between each set of steps? |
 |
All runners (both full and half marathoners) will be running approximately 7 kilometers (4 miles) on the actual Great Wall of China. The 5164 steps going up and down like a roller coaster are more or less continuous all along the wall.
|
|
2.What type of terrain? |
| |
The terrain is both flat and hilly. Though, the longest part in the valley is done on flat ground. The road and path going up to, across and back down the Great Wall is steep, and most runners will plan to do it by a combination of walking and running in order to avoid acidy leg muscles. On inspection day, every participant will receive advice on how to plan his race. It is very important to plan this race, and then race that plan. Be aware of getting too excited by the amazing sceneries and the sensation of actual being running the Great Wall Marathon. |
|
3.What will the weather be like? |
| |
Probably sunny with temperatures ranging from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius. On the Great Wall, the wind will make the air feel cool and refreshing whereas the valley gets quite hot and humid. Temperatures at start (7 am) are expected to be comfortable 15 degrees Celsius. |
|
4.What type of running gear should I bring? |
| |
Wear normal running shoes, shorts and a light colored running sing let.
On your head, do not wear a baseball cap (as it builds up a lot heat on your head) but a shade is very recommendable. Wear sunscreen with high factors, as the Chinese sun is potent. |
|
5.What if I change my mind, and want to run the half marathon instead? |
| |
All runners can change their mind with respect to the distance. Deadline for such changes will be BEFORE May 1st, 2012. |
|
6.Will there be showers and massage available afterwards? |
| |
There will be free shower and change facilities available after the race. Massage service needs to be paid. |
|
7.Will there be souvenirs available afterwards? |
| |
GWM T-shirt, fleece-jacket, cap, key ring, cold drinks, etc. will be supplied on the Y& Y Square. You can also order with GWM office by email. |
|
8.Can GWM help book local accomodation? |
| |
Yes, we have good relationship with local hostel. Please be aware the facilities at local hostel are basic, but clean, with private bathroom and walk distance to the race start. |
|
9.Can GWM help book transfer? |
| |
Yes, we can help book different vehicles at reasonable prices. If specical request please write us email separately. |
|
10.What, and how often, will the runners be drinking? |
| |
As it is quite warm in the valley, all runners must remember to drink a lot of water (also in the weeks before the race, as their bodies has to get used to absorbing large amounts of water). Drinks are supplied at every 4 kilometers.
The type of drinks supplied is water and, at selected stations, electrolyte. |
Training tips: Attachment 