42-kilometer marathon kicks off around Taroko gorge

The national park has held the road running event for 10 straight years. To celebrate the milestone achievement, the organizers invited 19 marathoners who had consistently joined the event over the past decade.

Some 1,500 people have registered for the full marathon of 42.19km (26.2 miles), and are challenging themselves to finish within 6 hours. Around 4,995 runners have registered for the half marathon and will run 21 km to the finish line, and another 3,500 joggers are doing the 5km fun run, which should be completed within an hour.

The 2009 Taroko Gorge Marathon has also attracted 289 foreign runners from 26 countries, including Suzuki Junko from Japan, who is taking part in the event for the second year.

To add flavor to the event and promote tourism, the National Park Administration organized a bazaar from now to Nov. 14, showcasing rattan artworks, woodcarving, traditional music instruments and agricultural products.

Furthermore, traffic control will be carried out from 4 a.m. to 2 p.m. in affected areas, including Taiwan Provincial Highway No. 8 from Asia Cement Factory to Tienshang and Provincial Highway No.9 from the area north of the Taroko Bridge and the north gate of the Chinwen Bridge.

The parking lots in front of Taroko's visitor center will also be temporarily closed.

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