Participating in a half marathon is always an exciting endeavor, but running three of them consecutively is a whole new level of dedication. This blog recounts my experience at the Kaptai Half Marathon, an event set against the backdrop of the picturesque hill area of Kaptai in Rangamati, Bangladesh. Located 300 kilometers from Dhaka, Kaptai is a renowned tourist attraction known for its stunning artificial lake, lofty mountains, and charming resorts. Having visited Kaptai and Rangamati on previous occasions, this time around, the half marathon took center stage.
Exploring Kaptai
Our journey began with a train ride to Chittagong, a day before the half marathon. Waiting for us in Chittagong was a reserved micro-bus that would serve as our mode of transport for the day. We decided to make the most of our time and embarked on a sightseeing adventure across Kaptai.
Our day started with a hearty breakfast at a local hotel. Following that, we made our way to a place called ‘Asam Basti,’ located on the Kaptai-Rangamati link road. Along the way, we couldn’t resist stopping to savor the breathtaking scenery and indulge in local fresh fruits.
Around 11 AM, we returned to Kaptai and checked into our accommodation, “Kaptai Prashanti Park.” After freshening up, we relished a delicious lunch with a view of the Kaptai Lake, which the resort overlooked.
In the afternoon, we headed to the heart of Kaptai, ‘Lakeshore Eco Park.’ This enchanting park featured a couple of vantage points to soak in the beauty of the surroundings. We spent our evening there and returned to our resort as the sun dipped below the horizon.
The Marathon Challenge
The next morning, we geared up for the half marathon. Due to some organizational delays, the race didn’t kick off until 6:40 AM. This was my third half marathon, but the challenging hilly terrain made it a unique experience. After completing the initial 10 kilometers, I found myself walking instead of running, covering approximately 6–7 kilometers on foot.
My primary goal this time was to finish the race without any injuries. I reached the finish line in around 2 hours and 45 minutes. While the medals weren’t available at the time, the organizers provided wristbands as proof of completion, with medals to be delivered later via courier service.
The Kaptai Half Marathon was an adventure filled with scenic beauty and personal challenges. Running over hills and valleys, the marathon tested my endurance and determination. Despite the unusual track and a somewhat slower pace, I completed the race with a sense of accomplishment. As the day came to a close, I returned to Chittagong and from there, took another bus back to Dhaka, cherishing the memories of this unique running experience in the heart of Kaptai.