Bogota, September 2024. The Bogota Chamber of Commerce (CCB) and the Government of Cundinamarca, with the support of the Mayors of Zipaquirá and Cogua, today launched the first edition of the Cundinamarca Half Marathon, to be held on October 27, 2024.

This sporting event, which promises to be a catalyst for the economic and social development of the region, seeks to promote physical activity, encourage coexistence through sport and boost tourism and the local economy in the province of Sabana Centro.

Ovidio Claros Polanco, president of the CCB, said: ''From the CCB we are joining efforts to promote good habits among citizens while promoting the development and competitiveness of businessmen and businesswomen in Cundinamarca. This initiative allows us to get closer to the citizens and promote the productive sector of the region, an objective we set with the Sports and Recreation Cluster Initiative we launched this year”.

In addition, the governor of Cundinamarca, Jorge Emilio Rey, emphasized that the main differentiator of this initiative is that the route crosses some of the most emblematic landscapes of the Cundinamarca savannah: “Most marathons and half marathons are held in urban environments, where the landscapes tend to be repetitive along the route. On this occasion, 10,000 people will run through one of the main cities of Cundinamarca, passing through the first wonder of Colombia, green areas and the traditional landscapes of our department.

With this race, which will also feature a gastronomic and handicraft fair to close the day with the family, we want not only to showcase the best of Cundinamarca, but also to position our department on the podium of the country's major sporting events”.

Categories and Participation

The Half Marathon is designed to attract both experienced and amateur runners, and will feature the participation of nationally and internationally renowned athletes. The 21K, 10K and 5K distances ensure participation from a broad spectrum of runners, with affordable fees of $80,000, $60,000 and $40,000, respectively. The three routes will start at the iconic Salt Cathedral, ending at the main park of Zipaquirá, highlighting routes of tourist and natural attraction. Registration includes a kit with T-shirt, medal, numbering and chip.

Activities and Benefits for Participants and Companions In addition to the race, other events are planned. On October 25, the #SomosLlaves Trade Fair will be held in Bogota, a space where local entrepreneurs and businessmen will exhibit their products and services and will be given kits for the Cundinamarca Half Marathon. On October 26, we will activate a trade fair in the municipality of Zipaquirá, summoning entrepreneurs and businessmen from the region. There will also be a cultural program for all audiences. Likewise, the CCB and the Governor's Office are working hand in hand with the tourism, gastronomic and service sectors of the municipalities of Zipaquirá, Cogua and Sabana Centro, so that during those days they can activate their businesses around the sporting event.

On the day of the event, October 27, runners and their companions will be able to find a variety of tourist and gastronomic offerings around the event and activations by sponsors. The organization has also prepared alliances with local tourism stakeholders to offer tour options and guided visits, allowing attendees to discover the cultural richness of Cundinamarca.

Economic and social impact The Cundinamarca Half Marathon seeks not only to be a benchmark sporting event, but also a driving force for the local economy. It is expected that the influx of visitors will increase hotel occupancy and consumption in restaurants and commercial establishments in the region, benefiting the local economy by 15% to 20% during the event.

Registration Open Registrations for the Cundinamarca Half Marathon are now open and can be made through the Bogota Chamber of Commerce website www.ccb.org.co. Those interested are invited to register in advance to secure their place and take advantage of the discounts and promotions available.