Gunsan Saemangeum National Inline Marathon, Golden Race on the 11th

Over 4,000 People Gathered at Saemangeum Embankment Area, the Largest Scale Ever

The 7th Gunsan Saemangeum National Inline Marathon, running along the world's longest seawall while enjoying the refreshing sea breeze, will kick off in a grand fashion on the 11th.

Since its first event in 2015, this competition is now in its 7th edition. The number of participants has steadily increased every year, establishing it as the top event in the country. The event was not held in 2020 and 2021 due to the impact of COVID-19. It is one of the most sought-after competitions for inline skaters and enthusiasts.

Poster for the 7th Gunsan Saemangeum National Inline Marathon. [Photo by the Organizing Committee]

The event will take place around the Saemangeum Seawall area in Gunsan, Jeonbuk, with 3,000 athletes and officials and 1,000 related personnel participating, making it the largest nationwide gathering of athletes and enthusiasts. The Korea Roller Sports Federation hosts the event, with the Jeonbuk Roller Sports Federation organizing it, and support from Jeonbuk Province and Gunsan City.

The competition categories include competitive divisions: 42 km races for men and women, 21 km races for youth, 21 km races for adults, and 11 km races for elementary school students. The non-competitive division covers 11 km.

The opening ceremony will be held at 8 a.m. on the day of the event at a special stage in the Bieungdo event site. The course starts from Gunsan Bieunghang, passes the Baram Shelter, and returns from the end point of the entire Yami Island waterfront road. Trophies and prizes will be awarded to the top 1st to 5th place finishers in each category.

The organizers this year have limited the number of participants to 3,000 on a first-come, first-served basis to ensure smooth event operation and the safety of the athletes. For safety, a medical support team consisting of about 20 medical personnel and 7 ambulances will be deployed at the event site and marathon course.

During the event, some sections will be restricted. On the day, from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., vehicles must detour via some waterfront roads.

Meanwhile, this event also has significant positive effects. With participants increasing by 10% annually, it helps promote the Saemangeum vision and supports the local economy. Accommodation facilities and restaurants near Bieunghang are reported to be fully booked not only by participants but also by enthusiasts who come with their families to cheer and tour the Saemangeum Seawall.

Jung Young-taek, chairman of the Jeonbuk Roller Sports Federation and the event organizing committee, said, “Unlike the city, Saemangeum Seawall is the best spot for inline skating while enjoying the fresh sea breeze,” adding, “We hope everyone runs safely and enjoyably across the ‘new land of Man-gum,’ which represents green growth and a clean ecological environment.”