BOROBUDUR MARATHON 2017: “Reborn Harmony” across Java’s fantastic landscape

Ready for a special run across spectacular landscape?

On 19th November 2017, the magnificent Borobudur Temple in Magelang Regency, in the Central Java Province will again become the focus of attention when runners from across the world gather at this UNESCO World Cultural Heritage monument to participate in Borobudur Marathon 2017.

This year, the sporting event carries the theme "Reborn Harmony", presented by the Province of Central Java in collaboration with Bank Jateng and Kompas Newspaper. "Reborn Harmony" is aimed to attract runners not just to participate in this long-range run but moreso to enjoy Borobudur as a world class destination.

10,000 runners from Indonesia and other parts of the world will be competing in the categories of 10Km, 21Km (half Marathon), and 42Km (Full Marathon). The Organizing Committee explained that this year's number of participants will be limited to 10,000 only to ensure that everyone will be able to enjoy the event in comfort. "We want to give the ultimate satisfaction to all participants so they can engage both in sport as well as in the tourist attractions. Therefore, comfort is something that we take very seriously" said Vice Governor of Central Java, Heru Sudjatmiko, adding that although the number of participants will be limited, there will be more attractions and events for participants to enjoy.

Image by : www.facebook.com/borobudur.marathon

Meanwhile, Minister of Youth and Sport, Imam Nahrawi expects that the event will also support the Let's Go Sport National Campaign which is a priority strategy of the Ministry of Youth and Sport. "Sport is not only beneficial for health but it also fosters friendship and strengthens unity. That is why Sports must become an important part of our culture" said Minister Imam Nachrawi.

On his part, the Minister of Tourism Arief Yahya commented that the fusion of sports and tourism will be beneficial to all. "When sport meets tourism, a new portfolio is formed so that it becomes: Sport Tourism!which forms part of man-made tourist attractions" said Minister Arief Yahya

Taking the Borobudur Marathon as a perfect example, the minister added that the event will not only attract local and national runners but will also appeal to international tourists. " Since, aside from improving their health, at the Borobudur Marathon, runners will be presented with a range of spellbinding attractions along the route" added Minister Arief Yahya.

Borobudur temple is the world's largest Buddhist monument, an ancient site widely considered as one of the world's seven wonders. Built in the 9th century during the reign of the Syailendra dynasty, the temple's design in Gupta architecture reflects India's influence on the region, yet there are enough indigenous scenes and elements incorporated to make Borobudur uniquely Indonesian.

Located on the island of Java, the temple sits majestically on a hilltop overlooking lush green fields and distant hills, dramatically facing the still smoking Mt. Merapi volcano. It covers a huge area, measuring 123 x 123 meters. The monument is a marvel of design, decorated with 2,672 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues. The architecture and stonework of this temple have no equal.

Borobudur temple has just been nominated by CNN as among one of the 15 destinations in the world definitely not to be missed.

Photo source of header banner : www.facebook.com/borobudur.marathon