International Half Marathon Race Along The Angkor Wat
The marathon is one of the most gruelling tests of human limits
. Officially, a marathon is just a little over forty two kilometres long and there are many such races throughout the world every year. The word 'marathon' comes from a Greek legend. The legend revolves around Pheidippides, a soldier and messenger of the Greek army, who fought the Persians in 490 BC in the Battle of Marathon. After the battle ended and the Persians were defeated, Pheidippides was tasked with bringing the good news to the people of Athens. Pheidippides ran from the battlefield all the way to Athens without stopping and finally exclaimed 'We won' at the city assembly before falling and passing away.
The route the soldier is reputed to have taken is roughly forty kilometres long and was commemorated in the 1896 Olympics. The current distance of 42.195 kilometres was only agreed upon in 1924. Completing a marathon requires proper training and tremendous inner strength and usually only highly competent athletes take part. The half marathon, which at half the distance is much easier and less strenuous, is becoming more popular as people from different walks of life can take part. There are popular half marathon races around the globe that attract a great deal of attention. The International Half Marathon held annually at the Angkor Wat in Cambodia is one of them.
The run takes place in the historic setting of the famous Angkor Wat, Cambodia's most famous temple complex. In 2012 the half marathon will take place on December 2nd and is open to everyone. Among the attendees are a large number of foreigners who come for the express purpose of participating. Money earned through the race is used to benefit victims of land mines. One can register for the event online.
Runners in Cambodia looking for a luxury hotel in Phnom Penh can try the historic Raffles Hotel Le Royal. The Phnom Penh hotel has been around for quite a while and is renowned for its elegance and excellent service. It is a terrific place to stay as it is quite close to the city's business and leisure centres.