|
Greetings to all! Nine years ago, when Jože Dakskobler, the initiator and driving force of the Mountain run of four municipalities, first presented me with the idea of a marathon where the runners must complete a 37,5 km course that involves a 5 km height difference, I wasn’t the only one to consider it a bit crazy. Nonetheless I was also drawn by its extremely challenging nature and the possibility it offered to promote the natural beauty and heritage of the fascinating area that I call home, Baška grapa.
The first race in 2002 surpassed all expectations and eliminated any remaining doubts. In the subsequent years the number of competitors has risen continuously year after year. The good experiences and satisfaction of competitors and visitors and the support of the Slovenian Athletic Association gave us the self-confidence to enter our candidacy for the world championship in 2009, which the World Mountain Running Association (WMRA) has now confirmed. |
|
(Janko Humar) |
There are at least two characteristics besides good organizational skills which really make our mountain marathon stand out: the attractive route in the unique natural environment and the hospitality of the populace. The route winds along picturesque mountain trails, climbing from the Petrovo Brdo pass (803m) to Črna prst (1760 m) where it passes by the Triglav National Park and then drops into the valley reaching its lowest point in Hudajužna (361m). From there it again climbs to Porezen (1.590m) and returns to Podbrdo (520m). The inhabitants of Podbrdo, a small village nestled in a corner of Baška grapa, as well as all the other local folk, living close by the route, are very good hosts. In no small part this is no doubt due to their being used to the harsh living conditions themselves and thus having a healthy respect for the efforts of the participants.
11 June 2011 will be an important day for us, since the 8th World Mountain Marathon Championship is at the same time an enormous challenge and a great sign of recognition for us. We are sure that with the help of the Tolmin municipality, which has been a strong supporter from the very beginning, the assistance of the neighboring Bohinj, Železniki and Cerkno municipalities, the participation of sponsors, without whom this event would not be possible, and the magnificent team working to make it all happen, we will be able to meet this challenge and make the best of it.
To all the participants of the championship I wish a successful race day and the best possible results. And to all visitors that they would feel good among us.
|
Janko Humar Director of the Organizational Committee |
|
 |
