Eilat Desert Marathon – Unique Treasure for the Adventurous Runner
By Michael Shoolman
There is a growing breed of runner. This runner seeks a unique experience. This runner wants their breath taken away by much more than the pace of the race. This runner can find all they’re looking for and more in Eilat.
In late November 1,300 of this breed from 24 countries gathered on Israel’s south coast to partake in the Eilat Desert Marathon. The runners began their challenge as the morning sunrise cracked over the picturesque mountains of neighbouring Jordan to flood the city and Negev Desert with colour and warmth.
Image courtesy of Marathon Israel
The location serves as the perfect stage for an unforgettable event which is tailored specifically to allow runners to take in the region’s natural wonders. Situated on the northern tip of the Red Sea, Eilat nestles between imposing mountains, still desert, and calm seas, which combine to provide extraordinary views.
The warm winter sun is offset by a refreshing ocean breeze, allowing temperatures to range from the low to high twenties throughout the course of the day. This range keeps the shorter 5 & 10km heats in the cool for the sprinters and amateur runners while hardened full and half marathon runners tackle the ultimate test of the desert in the climbing morning heat.
Image courtesy of Marathon Israel
During the early stages the route heads north along the Israeli-Jordanian border before guiding runners westward into the Negev toward Shchoret Mountain. A steady ascent climbs to a height of 286m taking the runners to the highest point of the course.
Rolling hills and challenging terrain are accompanied by a tranquil silence broken only by the echoes of runner’s footsteps along with the occasional noise of trackside spectators and drummers offering their support.
Image courtesy of Marathon Israel
During the descent back into Eilat runners are treated to the magnificent sight of the mountains of four countries – Israel, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt – wrapped around the Gulf of Aqaba. Such captivating views helps the runner forget the ever rising quantity of lactic acid burning their legs as they power back into the city to cross the finish line to the atmospheric cheers of local and travelling supporters.
Image courtesy of Israel Tourism
Kfir Man of Israel was the first runner to return from the full marathon, producing an ecstatic leap through the finish line to complete the gruelling course in a time of 03:05:25. German runner Peggy Kleidon later stormed through to claim first place for the women at 03:36:48.
Image courtesy of Marathon Israel
Click here to view highlights of 2015’s breathtaking event.
The race was first held as a half marathon after Ofer Padan, CEO of Marathon Israel and the event’s creator, brought his idea to Eilat City council in May of 2011. Humble beginnings soon led to growth in popularity, and after the first three successful editions the event was then expanded to include the full marathon in 2014.
Ofer’s dream has since flourished as an increasing number of Israeli and international runners descend upon Eilat with their families, partners, and friends in tow to experience the event and explore the marvels of the growing resort city.
Image courtesy of Michael Shoolman
“There is no doubt that the touristic potential is tremendous,” said Ofer.
“Eilat has summer weather conditions throughout most of the year and the combination with exotic views and the desert create a unique opportunity to participants from abroad to take part in a special event.”
Beyond the event, Eilat provides a welcome escape from the increasing cold of the Northern hemisphere’s winter. Tourists flock to Israel’s south to sunbake on the local beaches, swim in the warm waters of the Red Sea, scuba dive on the coral reefs, and indulge on the Middle-Eastern cuisine.
Image courtesy of Michael Shoolman
Popular coastal attractions include the Coral World Underwater Observatory, the Middle East’s largest public aquarium, as well as the delightful Dolphin Reef, where tourists can unwind in the relaxation pools or swim and interact with the local playful dolphins.
Thrill seekers can parachute over the unique scenery, kite surf atop of the Red Sea, or head to Top 94 for rock climbing, paintball, and go-karting among other activities.
Israel Tourism
This progressive event represents the future of the flourishing city which plays host to around fifty international sporting events.
Mayor of Eilat, Meir Yitzhak Halevi, shares the common belief that cross-border dialogue can be best opened through the comradery of sport. The Desert Marathon provides an ideal platform upon which international relations and friendships can grow.
Ofer Padan is currently working together with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to invite runners from their neighbouring countries to experience 2016’s event and work toward a bigger and brighter future for the region.
Image courtesy of Israel Tourism
Eilat can be reached by direct flights to Ovda Airport from many international locations including Paris, Amsterdam, Helsinki, Budapest and Krakow, or via transfer from Tel Aviv. Local tourism will soon receive a further boost with the opening of Ramon International Airport in 2017.
Marathon Israel produces many sports events in Israel and was part of the team behind the first Tel Aviv Marathon as well as the Jerusalem Marathon.
In addition to the Desert Marathon, Marathon Israel will also host the Tiberius Winner Marathon in early January of 2016 as well as The Bible Marathon which will take place on October 21st.
Registrations for next year’s third full Eilat Desert Marathon will open soon with the event date set for November 18th, 2016.
Image courtesy of Marathon Israel
