International marathon begins at Turkey's Lake Tuz

By Adem Kocak and Murat Oner Tas

AKSARAY, Turkey (AA) – The Garmin Runfire Salt Lake Ultra Trail marathon kicked off Friday at Turkey's Lake Tuz in Aksaray province.

Organized by Uzunetap, a member of the International Trail-Running Association, the three-day event will run until July 29.

Speaking to Anadolu Agency, Uzunetap Project Director Ozgur Celikkaya said there is great interest in this year’s marathon, which is being held for the second time in Turkey.

"There are around 700 athletes here, including both national and international athletes," he said.

Celikkaya said there are various race categories such as 21k half-marathon and a 100-mile run, which he described as the “most challenging category".

"The 100-mile category is Turkey's first and only 100-mile race. It is an approximately 160- kilometer distance and a very tough race. Runners are struggling with very high temperatures and the challenges of Lake Tuz, but at the same time, it’s a pleasant and competitive race," he said.

Stating there is no such marathon anywhere else in the world, Celikkaya said it differs from other races due to its length and distance and because it is run on a salt lake.

"With the different features of the salt lake, people enjoy a unique experience," he added.

Lake Tuz is one of the largest hypersaline lakes in the world with its surface area of 1,665 square kilometers (643 square miles).