1,200 Enjoy 'Gift Run Trip' Combining Lake, Forest, and Sea in Gangneung

A scenic trail running event, the 'Urban Gas Trail On Run,' brought together 1,200 participants in Gangneung, South Korea. The fifth installment of this national series, co-hosted by the Korea City Gas Association and Dong-A Ilbo, offered a unique experience combining natural beauty with athletic challenge. Runners embarked on a 24km course that wound through diverse landscapes, starting from Gyeongpo Lake Plaza and traversing Gyeongpo Lake, the Gangneung Olympic Park, forest trails, and the coastal paths of Gangmun Beach.

Unlike traditional road marathons, trail running integrates elements of both road and mountain running, allowing participants to experience varied terrain. This blend of environments presents a dynamic challenge, where runners might find themselves sprinting on flat paths, power-hiking up inclines, or navigating descents. The event featured three different course options, catering to a range of abilities.

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Marathons require constant fast running, but trail running has the charm of sometimes walking on uphills and sometimes falling on downhills.

Jung Seol-ah, 53, from Incheon, won the women's 24km division. A former marathon runner who transitioned to trail running in her 40s, Jung described the sport's appeal: "Marathons require constant fast running, but trail running has the charm of sometimes walking on uphills and sometimes falling on downhills." She noted that while she avoided falling in this particular race, she had experienced falls in previous events, showing a small scar on her arm. Jung also shared her delight at seeing the ocean after enduring the heat, saying, "After enduring the blazing sun, the sea came into view from the Gangmun Beach course, and hearing the sound of the waves was so refreshing."

The men's 24km race was won by Jang Jae-kyung, 50, from Gyeonggi Province. The event celebrated not only athletic achievement but also the opportunity for participants to connect with the natural environment, enjoying the picturesque views of Gangneung.

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After enduring the blazing sun, the sea came into view from the Gangmun Beach course, and hearing the sound of the waves was so refreshing.