Running on Water: The Lowest Point on Earth

The Dead Sea region, managed by the Tamar Regional Council since 1956, is one of the most remarkable landscapes on the planet. Nestled within the Syrian-African Rift, it is home to breathtaking geological formations, vast desert expanses, and the world's saltiest body of water—the Dead Sea. This unique environment, where land sinks to 430 meters (1,411 feet) below sea level, creates an otherworldly running experience unlike any other.

Runners are drawn to this region not only for its extreme geography but also for its rich history and cultural significance. The area boasts historical landmarks such as Masada, the Ancient Byzantine Synagogue, and Ein Gedi, an oasis with lush vegetation amid the stark desert. The mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea and the surrounding air—renowned for its therapeutic qualities—make this a destination for both athletes and wellness seekers alike.

Despite its arid landscape, the Tamar region has seen remarkable development in tourism, agriculture, and industry. Today, the council oversees six communities and welcomes over 2 million visitors annually who come to hike, explore, and experience the region’s natural wonders. While only 1,350 people call this area home, their commitment to preserving its heritage and potential remains strong.

For runners, the Dead Sea offers a race like no other—where the stark beauty of the desert meets the surreal sensation of running at the lowest point on Earth. Whether you're aiming for a personal best or simply soaking in the ancient scenery, the experience is nothing short of extraordinary.

The Kagawa Marugame Half Marathon is an annual road running competition which takes place in early February in Marugame, Japan. It currently holds IAAF Silver Label Road Race status and the professional races attract over 1000 entries each year, and hosted by the Sankei Shimbun, Sankei Sports, Okayama Broadcasting, BS Fuji.

The race in Marugame was first held in 1947 as a full-length marathon, known as the Kagawa Marathon. A companion 20 km race began in 1949 in addition to the scheduled marathon. The course lengths were gradually reduced over time: the main race lasted as a full marathon until 1961 when a 35 km race was held and the shorter race became a 10 km competition. The main race was again shortened in 1971, being reduced to a 20 km race. The competitions were known as the Kagawa Road Races until 1997, when the main race was slightly extended to the half marathon distance and the competition received its current moniker.

Competitors in the professional races are largely Japanese athletes, supplemented by African athletes based in the country. In addition, a small number of foreign athletes are invited to compete each year. The level of competition is strong: Kenyan runner Mekubo Mogusu recorded a sub-60 minute time in 2007 for the men's course record (59:48), while the women's course record of 1:07:26, set by Kayoko Fukushi in 2006, is the Asian record for the half marathon. The course is AIMS-certified making performances at the course eligible for national and world records.

The course of the half marathon is largely linear, beginning at the Marugame Stadium and heading eastwards before abruptly looping back to follow the same path back towards the finish point within the stadium.

The Watford Half Marathon is a very well-established race, its mainly along lovely country roads and lanes that are virtually traffic free.UK Athletics Gold Graded Event.The race incorporates the Hertfordshire County Veterans Half Marathon Championships.

The race has strong history with in the running community and has beentaking place for the past 40 years, on various courses in the Watford area. We attract runners from those graduating from Park Runs, to those training for spring marathons . The race is organised by the Watford Harriers, we have been organising athletics event on track, road and cross country for over 50 years. This is an event for Runners by Runners.

The Beppu-Oita Marathon is an annual men's marathon race that takes place every February between the cities of Beppu and Oita on the island of Kyushu in Japan. First held in 1952 as a 35km race, the looped marathon course begins at the bottom of Takasaki Mountain and reaches Beppu's Kankoko International Port before turning back towards the finishing point in the Aita Municipal Athletic Stadium. The race has IAAF Silver Label Road Race status. The event is sponsored by the The Mainichi Newspapers Co. and is formally known as the Beppu-Ota Mainichi Marathon.

The marathon race attracts approximately 500 entrants each year, of whom around two-thirds finish the course. The large majority of the runners are Japanese, or Japanese-based. A small number of international athletes are invited to compete each year, although other foreign athletes also appear in the race for pace setting purposes. An additional road race, the Beppu-Oita Mainichi Half Marathon, was held in conjunction with the main race between 1976 and 2001.