Modern Athlete Magazine Issue 125, December 2019 | Page 42

T
here are many advertisements for island holidays where the photos include
white sandy beaches, clear blue oceans and reed umbrellas, where you
can lie in the sun all day and sip on cocktails. I can do that type of holiday
for a day or two, but then I want to go do something. Fortunately, activity holidays
are slowly becoming more popular, but it is hard to find something that fits in with
exactly what you want to do. I have tried organising my own running holiday a
couple of times now, so I’ve faced the steep inclines of Reunion as well as the
manicured trails of the Swiss alps, but one challenge remains... Travelling light!
When you head into the mountains, staying dry and warm will always be an
important part of your planning. You never know what weather the mountains might
throw at you. The biggest constraint with this is the amount of weight you have to
carry on your back, which in the end leads to it being more of a hike than a run. If
you are on a tight budget, add food to this equation, and will definitely make it a
slow, weighty experience.
Warm welcome to the race
This brings me to the Himalayan 100 Mile Stage Race. Yes, this is a race, run over
five days in the Himalayan foothills of a little-known part of India between Nepal
and Bhutan, but to me it was the ideal running holiday, with excellent logistical
support. From the time you arrive in India to the morning you toe the start line in
the small town of Maneybhanjang, all is taken care of, and you don’t have to worry
about a thing.
Two days in the town of Mirik gives you enough time to prepare for the run and do
some sightseeing. Should you wish to squeeze in as much as you can while in the
country, a day-trip to Darjeeling can easily be arranged – and if you are concerned
with the altitude, this day-trip will introduce your lungs to an altitude of 2000m
above sea level, similar to the start of the race. I chose to enjoy my time in Mirik,
opting out of another longish bus trip before a five-day run, and rather stretching
my legs with a 5km run around the lake. Mirik also has a lovely market area and
there are a few gems to be found in this little town.
Straight uphill from the start in Maneybhanjang
Race organiser Mr C.S. Pandey
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ISSUE 125 DECEMBER 2019 / www.modernathlete.co.za
The scenic Lake at Mirik