The Everest Marathon
Getting the Knack of the Naks
Robb Taylor / 23.11.2009
We were at the Kathmandu domestic airport well before sunrise. Four Twin Otter flights took off as the sun rose and we had a smooth, clear fight to Lukla. The runway is short but slants uphill allowing for a quick stop. After a hot tea in a lodge, we learned that all participants and all baggage had arrived safely, so we were off on our first short trek from Lukla (2820m) to Phakding (2610m) and our first night in a lodge.
<b>Friday 20 November - Up to Namche Bazaar</b>
We got a 7.30 am start for Sagarmatha National Park and the day's goal of Namche Bazaar (3440m). The trail passed through small villages, crossed the Dudh Kosi river several times on suspension bridges and slowly gained altitude. We had a short lunch break at the park entrance gate at Jorsale.
Then it was onward and upward, dodging the nak trains, to the large suspension bridge which led to the famed hill to Namche. The hill was relentless: there were many people and naks going in both directions. We made many rest stops and some took advantage of a tangerine seller about half way up.
On arrival in Namche we were surrounded by shops, lodges and people but eventually found our lodges. We unpacked, rested, ate, shopped, took hot showers, explored the busy town and compared our experiences over dinner.
<b>Saturday 21 November - In Namche</b>
After a hearty breakfast, some shopping for pieces of trekking gear and souvenirs, and a visit to the colourful Saturday market, most participants opted for a climb to the Shyangboche air strip and the Everest View Hotel.
Almost everyone made it before the mist blew in and they got their first view of Mount Everest which was peeking from behind the Nuptse wall. The spectacular Ama Dablam also put on quite a show. Some stayed for tea while some returned to Namche for hot apple pie. Evening arrived quickly: we ate, showered and packed for tomorrow
<b>Sunday 22 November - Down to Business</b>
Our bags had to be out early as we had to climb the hill to Chorkhung for a training run on the infamous Thamo loop, the last 6 gruelling miles of the race course. Well, it was a beautiful morning and a very manageable trail out to the village of Thamo and back again. But I wonder if it will feel the same on race day after 20 miles! It's essential to find the right way down into the village and the finish line too.
Now we are setting off for Khumjung and our first night under canvas. It feels as if the adventure is really beginning!
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