V Trail in Laos goes into third year
The inaugural trail running event in Laos is already entering it’s third edition this season on 21/22 November. The V Trail in Vang Vieng, in the south of the country, has quickly established a reputation for being one of the most technical and adventurous trail races on our Asia Trail Master Championship calendar. The 85 km long main points race has about 5100 metres of elevation gain through often thick mountain jungle. The 2020 recipe remains unchanged after an initial plan by organisers Green Step/Teelakow to boost the distance to 100k was shelved for another year. Sharp observers will of course have noticed that the event is now scheduled two weeks later than usual.
Vang Vieng is a small town north of Vientiane, sitting alone the banks of the Nam Song River. It's surrounded by striking limestone mountains and caves. Previously known for its controversial backpacker party culture, the local government a few years ago decided to improve the reputation of the town and has gambled all-in on developing ecologically-friendly adventure travel. The V Trail event is part of that plan.
The online registration for the event is open now. Asia Trail Master point-seekers need to focus on the 85 km race. Less ambitious runners can also opt for one of the shorter distances.