Visiting Palau Vice President J. Uduch Sengebau Senior on Thursday extended an invitation to runners from around the globe to visit the western Pacific country in June to participate in the inaugural Belau Omal Marathon.

Speaking during a press event in Taipei, Vice President Sengebau Senior said the one-day series of races co-organized with Taiwan’s Chinese Taipei Road Running Association (CTRRA) on June 4 will allow participants to enjoy Palau’s world-famous sea views.

According to the vice president, “Belau” is the Palauan name for the country, while “Omar” can be translated as “unique” and “surprising.”

“And that is what is expected in this Belau Omal Marathon,” Senior said.

“Runners will take off before dawn and the course will span through hills with breathtaking views of the ocean and lush valleys of Palau and along bridges that cut across crystal blue waters,” Senior added.

“We welcome marathoners from Taiwan and all over around the world to experience the beauty and vibrancy of our island nation and our country through this marathon,” Senior said.

Meanwhile, Taiwan’s Deputy Foreign Minister Roy Lee (??) said tourism was one of Palau’s main sources of income but that the sector had been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic.

As travel restrictions imposed due to the pandemic have been lifted by countries around the globe, Palau is ready to embrace travelers again, Lee said.

The upcoming marathon is a perfect collaboration between two allies to further connect both countries and to invite visitors from around the globe to personally experience Palau’s scenery and environment, he added.

According to the CTRRC, the event will also include a 21km half-marathon and 5k and 10k races.

All the races will start and finish at the Koror-Babeldaob Bridge, a bridge in Palau that connects Koror and Babeldaob Islands.

The marathon is offering prizes of US$2,000, US$1,500 and US$1,000 for the top three finishers, with first, second and third place in the half marathon receiving US$1,000, US$500 and US$250, respectively.

Those interested in registering for the races can do so at: http://www.sportsnet.org.tw

Palau is one of 14 states that formally recognizes the Republic of China, Taiwan’s official name. The two countries established diplomatic ties in 1999.

Source: Focus Taiwan News Channel