N. Korea hosts big race as tensions run lower
PYONGYANG, North Korea — Hundreds of foreigners joined in the annual Pyongyang marathon on Sunday despite political tensions that have only recently begun to ease and a ban on U.S citizens traveling to the country that is still in effect.
Approximately 400 foreign amateurs took part, less than half the number that came last year. They came from about 40 countries and territories around the world. Organizers attributed the lower turnout to tensions that peaked last year. They began to ease in the last few months.
Disabled athletes were allowed to participate for the first time.
This year’s marathon started in Kim Il Sung Stadium and wound past Pyongyang landmarks such as Kim Il Sung Square and Mirae Street, one of the North Korean capital’s recent redevelopment projects.
Thirteen foreign professional runners from African countries participated in the elite category.
The men’s full marathon was won by North Korean Ri Kang Bom in 2 hours, 12 minutes and 53 seconds. “I’m glad that I was able to fulfill the expectations of the people,” Ri said.
The winner of the women’s full marathon was North Korean Kim Hye Gyong, who came in at 2 hours, 27 minutes and 24 seconds, with her twin sister, Kim Hye Song, closely behind.
The competition is officially called the Mangyongdae Prize International Marathon. Mangyongdae is where North Korea says its late founder, President Kim Il Sung, was born. It’s part of a series of events held to commemorate the anniversary of his April 15 birthday.
April 15 is called the Day of the Sun and is North Korea’s biggest holiday.
The International Association of Athletic Federations recognized this year’s Pyongyang marathon as a Bronze Label Road Race.