Sandiaga Uno, Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy
Jakarta, IO – The Lake Toba Authority (BPODT) proudly announces a trail running competition, the “Trail of The Kings” (TOTK) Zero Edition, which will be held on May 4-5, 2024, on Samosir Island, Lake Toba, North Sumatra. Organized by Creation Sport Division, the event will present activities to promote natural, heritage and local culture tourism in the Lake Toba area.
TOTK is expected to attract 1,500 runners, hailing from Indonesia and worldwide. Categories include a 5 km and 10 km Fun Run, a 27 km Trail Run and a 50 km Ultra Trail Run.
Not only does TOTK offer runners the experience of running amid Lake Toba’s majestic natural environs, but it also introduces the history and rich cultural heritage of the Batak tribe to participants and visitors.
When speaking to the media on Friday (Mar 15), Main Director of BPODT Jimmy Bernando Panjaitan stated that TOTK promises more than just a cross-country running competition. “Not only can runners enjoy running with a view of Lake Toba, which is unique and cannot be found anywhere else, but they can also follow the cultural history of the Batak tribe by following the migration route of ancient Batak kings,” said Jimmy.
The TOTK cross-country run aims to introduce the Lake Toba route to the trail-running world. Deputy for Coordination of Mental Revolution, Promotion of Culture and Sports Achievement of the Coordinating Ministry for Human Development and Culture Aris Darmansyah said in his speech, “TOTK Zero Edition is held to bring UTMB (Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc) to Indonesia.” UTMB is the world’s most prestigious trail run event, where 10,000 trail runners gather annually.
BPODT is expected to bring success to the TOTK Zero Edition and obtain satisfactory evaluation from UTMB, so that Indonesia can hopefully hold UTMB events, especially in Lake Toba.
Running categories in the TOTK Zero Edition are intended to invite runners of all ages and levels to join and enjoy an unforgettable running experience. Runners will be pampered by Lake Toba’s scenic beauty and learn about the rich and proud cultural heritage of the Batak tribe, by running through villages where the Batak culture originated and where the Batak kings migrated during their time. Runners will also pass through a legendary Batak icon, Mount Pusuk Buhit. In Batak mythology, the peak of this mountain is said to be the birthplace of the Batak tribe. The mountain is estimated to have been formed around 54,500 years ago and stands at 1972 m above sea level. It covers several villages in Sianjur Mula District and Pangururan District.
Apart from Pusuk Buhit, the TOTK route also includes sites, villages, tourist attractions and amazing landscapes. Thus, runners can enjoy a unique experience, one that offers natural beauty and a fascinating historical story.
Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy Sandiaga Uno expressed enthusiasm when talking with the press. “The Trail of the Kings running event has many benefits beyond the sport itself. Not only does it introduce Lake Toba as a Super Priority Tourism Destination in Indonesia, but it is also a place for community participation and collaboration to support the local community and creative economy around the Lake Toba area,” said Sandiaga.
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Lake Toba, the largest volcanic lake in the world and part of the UNESCO Global Geopark, with 16 geosites around it, and the Trail of The Kings are expected to increase awareness in maintaining the sustainability of the habitat and natural beauty of Lake Toba, as well as promoting the distinctive and noble cultural heritage of the Lake region.
Runners who are excited about enjoying running in Lake Toba’s natural beauty and rich cultural history can register on the official TOTK website starting Mar 13, 2024. Early bird prices starting from IDR 123,000 are available, and the registration will be closed after all running slots are sold. (rp)