It’s like running on a battlefield！The 2nd "Matsu International Marathon" kicks off in November

▲The 2nd Matsu International Marathon will take place in November (Photo／Courtesy ofMatsu International Marathon Facebook page)

By Cai Wen-jun, Taipei

What are the enchanting sights of Matsu in winter? Why not take them in while running? The 2nd "Matsu International Marathon" is set to start on November 5. The initial 1,500 slots have been fully booked, and the organizers have added 200 more spots open to runners from around the world. Liu Zeng-ying, Magistrate of Lienchiang County, said that Matsu boasts breathtaking seascapes, and the race route will pass by various military sites, with soldiers cheering on both sides—giving participants the unique experience of feeling as if they are truly running on a former battlefield.

▲Famous scenic spot Iron Fort in Nangan, Matsu (Photo／By Cai Wen-jun)

▲Beihai Tunnel in Nangan, Matsu (Photo／By Cai Wen-jun)

The 2nd Matsu International Marathon will commence on November 5 at the Fu’ao Athletics Stadium. Liu Zeng-ying noted that Matsu’s terrain features significant elevation changes and hard ground surfaces, with some sections of the course running along the edges of roads—making it more challenging compared to other marathons, thus earning the title of the “coolest marathon on Earth.”

▲Lienchiang County Magistrate Liu Zeng-ying (Photo／By Cai Wen-jun)

“An overseas participant who joined the first Matsu International Marathon last year praised it as the most beautiful and challenging course in the world,” Liu Zeng-ying said. Matsu offers unique landscapes, military architecture, as well as delicious food and drinks. The race route will take runners past some of Nangan’s most famous military landmarks, including Beihai Tunnel, Iron Fort, and Outpost 12. Refreshment stations along the way will also serve authentic local Matsu specialties such as fish balls, Matsu crackers, and fish noodles—allowing participants to enjoy both the scenery and cuisine for a true sports tourism experience.

Wang Zhong-ming, Director of the Matsu National Scenic Area Administration, also mentioned that Matsu has many world-firsts, such as the world’s tallest granite statue of Mazu and the highest density of tunnels, offering runners a chance to immerse themselves in the beautiful military heritage.

▲The finisher medal to be awarded after the race (Photo／By Cai Wen-jun)

The 2nd Matsu International Marathon features three categories: 42 km, 21 km, and 10 km. Organizers stated that all participants who complete the race within the designated time will receive a custom-made finisher medal designed with inspiration from Qinpibei Village in Beigan. Liu Zeng-ying also revealed that a mysterious gift—a 600cc bottle of Matsu Kaoliang liquor—will be given to all finishers, allowing runners from around the world to savor one of the finest white spirits in the world.