Taiwan is going to host its first marathon in the outlying island of Matsu on November 9. That was the word from the Lienchiang County government on Tuesday as registration began. They’re expecting 700 runners to participate.
The county said that it will be a unique race as it is the most northern international marathon in Taiwan. It will run past famous tourist sites such as the statue of the goddess of Matsu, the Tunnel 88, and the Iron Castle. It said the scenery and terrain will make it the most beautiful and challenging marathon in Taiwan.
Lienchiang County official Tsang Lung-deh says this race will be the last frontier for many of Taiwan’s runners.
"Matsu is a part of Lienchiang County. It is the last place in the nation to host a marathon race," said Tsang.
"Marathon runners would like to say they’ve run marathons in every city and county in Taiwan. They’re only missing Matsu, the last piece of the puzzle. If they participate, they will have completed that picture."
Marathons have become a very popular activity in Taiwan in recent years. There have been so many marathons that the Taipei City Government had to limit the number to two major events a month this year. There will be an estimated 211 running events in Taiwan this year.
Last year, Matsu saw about 100,000 visits from tourists. Its famous blue tears oceanic phenomenon has been a big attraction. The county said it hopes the marathon will give tourists another reason to visit the island.