The fifth Haftkul mountain half-marathon has taken place in Tajikistan’s Fann Mountains, bringing together sport, tourism and environmental protection.
The race followed a route through the Haftkul, or Seven Lakes, natural complex, one of Tajikistan’s best-known tourist destinations, famous for its turquoise lakes and dramatic mountain scenery.
More than 200 people from around 20 countries took part, including professional athletes, amateur runners, tourists and bloggers.
Participants competed over distances of three, 10 and 21 kilometers. Each route passed through challenging mountain terrain and required considerable endurance and physical preparation.
The event also included an environmental campaign. Participants and organizers carried out cleanup and improvement work around all seven lakes and along their shorelines.
A tent camp on the shore of Hushyor, the third lake, served as the main gathering point during the event. Guests attended concerts, meetings and other cultural activities. One evening ended with a sumo tournament that attracted both participants and spectators.
The race route covered the main sections of Haftkul, a chain of seven mountain lakes in the Shing River valley. The lakes, sometimes known as the “Seven Beauties,” are noted for colors ranging from bright turquoise to deep blue.
Race results
Tajik runner Siyovush Bayonzoda won the men’s 21-kilometer race, completing the mountain course in one hour and 27 minutes. Qobil Yaqinov of Tajikistan finished second, while Kazakhstan’s Orzubek Abdurahmonov placed third.
In the women’s 21-kilometer race, Uzbekistan’s Arofatkhon Imomaliyeva took first place. Rajabmoh Abdulloyeva and Marjona Mahkamova, both representing Tajikistan, finished second and third.
Kyrgyzstan’s Ruskeldi Akirov won the men’s 10-kilometer event. Umed Qurbonzoda and Bobojon Yaqinov of Tajikistan took second and third place.
In the women’s 10-kilometer race, Aiym Orzgusheva of Kyrgyzstan finished first, followed by Tajik athletes Nigora Akramzoda and Shahnoza Astapova.
Tajik runners occupied all three podium places in the men’s three-kilometer race. Nasim Assomidinov won, Mustafo Yaqubov finished second and Bilol Aliqulov came third.
The women’s three-kilometer podium was also entirely Tajik. Shamigul Jumazoda took first place, Mubina Nourova finished second and Valeria Lazareva placed third.
