The second edition of much awaited world’s highest ‘Snow Marathon Lahaul’ will kick start on March 12 at Sissu in Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh.

The event, which is being organized by district Lahaul and Spiti administration and Reach India will witness participants competing for full (42 km) and half (21 km) marathon  along with ten and five kilometre runs for both men, women and junior categories.

The event has been recognized by the Fit India Movement of the Government of India.

While addressing media persons here on Wednesday, organizer Gaurav Schimer said that Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu will flag off the marathon.

“The Snow Marathon in India was the first of its kind designed for long-distance runners. The inaugural first edition of this marathon was held on March 26 last year and proved to be a great success. Around 120 participants took part in the event,” he said.

India joined the league of ten snow and ice marathons in the world as some of which take place on the Arctic Circle, North Pole, and in locations such as Siberia, he informed.

“The team of Fortis doctors and paramedics will provide medical security with its highly advanced ambulance during the course of the event to prevent any causality with runners,” he said.

Event’s Chief Advisor Col Arun Natarajan, who is an aviator with the Indian Army said, “This snow marathon represents the next level of running in India following normal marathons, ultra runs, and ironman competitions.”

Col Arun Natrajan, an Indian Army aviator who has participated in over twenty marathons, expressed his pride in contributing to the Snow Marathon Lahaul.

Reach India CEO Rajiv Kumar said: “This year’s event is focused on animal welfare and we will be supporting ‘Manali Strays’, which is the only organization dedicated to the welfare of animals in the region.”

Last year’s winner in the women’s category, Tanzin Dolma, a resident of Spiti recalling her experience said, “It was the first time that I had participated in such an event. We are looking forward to more participation of women this time, as last year I was the lone participant from the category.”

Sharing the tips to run on the snow, she said that a lot of practice is a must in this marathon, proper acclimatization a few days in advance and also proper gear that includes snow shoes and costume to keep the body warm and proper hydration plan.”