Stage 1 – 7 September 2024
Key Metrics: Distance 21km, Elevation Gain 1043m
For our first stage, we will join the 7 Lakes Half Marathon which we are organizing in co-operation with the local government. The race will be a running celebration of Tajik Independence day. The race is open to all participants, so we will be able to experience, along with the local running community and other visiting runners, the spirit of the Tajik people.
The stage will start below the first lake and will climb up the beautiful Shing Valley traversing all seven of the beautiful and diverse lakes of the valley, ending at the seventh lake.
Route Stats
- 21.1km
- 1,043m Elevation Gain
- 452m Descent
- 2,408m Highest Point
- Download GPX File
Racers will have to decide how hard to push today; go for a placing in the half marathon or conserve more for the next 5 stages.
We will have the opportunity to participate in the post-race festivities with the running community. A tented camp will be set up at the seventh lake to enjoy the beautiful location, while re-fueling, sharing stories and getting to know our fellow participants.
Seven Lakes is a direct translation of the local name Haft-Kul and it’s just a simple description of what you’ll find here – seven turquoise colored lakes. As you ascend from Lake 1 one to 7, you’ll be running along gravel and dirt trails, increasing gently in altitude as you ago and enjoying the beauty of the 7 turquoise lakes. This is a perfect first stage and a chance to better acclimate to the altitude and dry climate of the Tajik mountains.
The Route
Download the Stage 1 GPX file: Stage 1 – 7 Lakes
Climate
- Avg Temps: Sunny, 4-20c
- Avg Humidity: 30%
- Avg Precipitation: 10mm per month
- See live weather