‘The High’ – Running for climate action
Why think of running at these crazy altitudes?
The reason for doing this run is to bring to everyone’s notice what is happening to the Himalayas, often called the ‘Water Tower’ or even ‘Third Pole of the world’, because these mountains contain the largest store of fresh-water in the world after the north and south poles.
Life giving waters of 10 major river systems originate from the Himalayas, sustaining nearly one-fifth of humanity. (from southern China, through the Mekong delta in Vietnam and Irrawady in Myanmar to the Indo-Gangetic plains in north India)
We are working with the Centre for Social Market’s Climate Challenge India campaign for this cause. CSM says the melting glaciers of the Himalayas are India’s canaries in the coalmine. If they don’t wake up politicians and people on climate change, nothing else will.
The strapline for CSM’s climate campaign is: “A billion good reasons for leadership.” The organisation is changing the way the issue is framed in India – from a victim-led approach to a pro-active, ‘can-do/ must-do’ agenda. CSM hosts the India Climate Portal and is at the forefront of climate advocacy in the country, working with business, government, cities, schools and NGOs to promote leadership and advance solutions.
CSM’s chief executive, and fellow runner, Malini Mehra, says: “We can live without oil, but we can’t live without water. This run is an important opportunity to bring world attention to the challenges facing our mountains and all who live and depend on them – people and nature alike. We are committed to working with Back 2 Fitness to make The High a regular annual event that will act as a catalyst for action.”
Whats ‘La Ultra – The High’ about?
It’s an Ultra run in the foothills of Himalayas, with a total distance of 200 km (124 miles)
This run would happen on Leh – Manali HighwayWe will cross (controversially*) the highest motorable pass in the world, i.e. Khardung La (17,700 ft) down to Leh an then up again to Tanglang La (17,583 ft).
Highest points is Khardung La at 17,700 ft (5395 m).
Cumulative vertical ascent: 10,193 ft (3,107 m)
Cumulative vertical descent: 8,873 ft (2,704 m)
Why call it ‘La Ultra – The High’?
We cross two of the 7 highest mountain passes in the world. Mountain Pass in Tibetan is called La. ‘La Ultra’ means ‘ultra of passes’.
This is easily the highest ultra out there. But we are not interested in that claim. Its an experience to cherish for life. It’s being on ‘The High’, both in altitude terms and to be on a ‘Runner’s High’ as well.
Why are dates chosen that clash with some classic ultras out there?
We don’t have much of a choice. This route is only open from June to mid-September when snow is cleared by the Border Road Organisation.
Also, on 25th July is full moon. The mountains look even more gorgeous during the night.
What about High Altitude Sickness, since this is at crazy heights?
We have taken that into account. According to Indian Army’s schedule for acclimatisation, there needs to be a 4 day stop at 9,000 ft and then again for 4 days at 13,000 ft. Since we are starting from about those altitudes, we can run non-stop.
We have made it mandatory for all participants and volunteers to be in Leh for a week before the run for acclimatisation.
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