The fourth night half marathon "Lights of Derbent" was held in Dagestan

A night run through the historical center of Derbent gathered more than 3,000 participants from 50 regions of the country. The route, which ran through steep ascents and descents, became a serious challenge even for trained athletes.

The Citadel became the launching pad for a unique night race in Derbent.

"This is a large—scale sports festival — more than 3,000 runners from 50 regions of the country came to Derbent to run through the streets of one of the oldest cities in the world," said Izvestia correspondent Murad Magomedov, who started with the participants.

The women came out to the road with treats for the runners. Some tourists reciprocated and distributed sweets.

Three distances of varying difficulty were prepared for the participants — for 3, 10 and 21 kilometers. The track is quite difficult: due to the steep ascents, many people slowed down to a walk.

"The last kilometer is the most difficult. My lungs hurt, I don't have enough oxygen, and I can't feel my muscles. There's just a little bit left," Magomedov marveled.

Each finisher is awarded a commemorative medal. It is not just a souvenir, but a symbol of overcoming. The runners finished tired but happy.

"It was very difficult, but it was worth it," said Nadezhda Nazarova, a tourist from the Moscow region.

"It was the most emotional race of my life. People came out of their homes with their children, and all their families were supported," said Ekaterina, a tourist from Tula.

Running tourism is gaining popularity — sports are becoming a reason to travel.

"Any race becomes a point of attraction for event tourism, because people are not interested in running in the same places. They are interested in visiting new places, new republics, absorbing new experiences and trying new things," said Anton Zhilin, the main organizer of the night race in Derbent.

Many participants decided to stay in Derbent for a few days to get to know the ancient city and the atmosphere of the southern region.

Around the color: how regions attract tourists in the off-season

Attractions are becoming more accessible, and hotels are reorienting to work all year round.

Earlier, on October 5, track and field athlete Vladimir Nikitin became the first Russian to complete a half marathon in less than an hour. He ran 21.1 km in 59 minutes and 51 seconds. The record was set at the Kazan Half Marathon.

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