Jakarta, May 12, 2024, The Europe Today: The inaugural Trail of The Kings (TOTK) Zero Edition running event, held amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Samosir, Lake Toba, concluded successfully with the enthusiastic participation of 736 runners representing 12 countries. Organized by the Lake Toba Authority Implementation Agency (BPODT), the event spanned May 4-5, 2024, featuring exhilarating categories including Fun Run 5K and 10K, as well as Trail Run 27K and 50K.
Reflecting on the event’s success, BPODT President Director Jimmy Bernando Panjaitan affirmed the organization’s commitment to its future, promising a return of TOTK next year with aspirations of securing licensing under the prestigious Ultra Trail Mont Blanc (UTMB). Panjaitan underscored the event’s eco-conscious ethos and its transformative impact on the communities surrounding Lake Toba.
“We will hold TOTK again next year with the hope that it has been licensed under the Ultra Trail Mont Blanc (UTMB). The TOTK is an environmentally friendly event involving local communities in 12 villages that were traversed by the running track,” Panjaitan stated.
Panjaitan highlighted the integral role played by local communities in the success of the event, noting their engagement as runners, marshals, food and beverage providers, cleaning personnel, and more. He emphasized the empowerment of these communities through their participation in a global-scale running event, fostering skill development and community cohesion.
Meanwhile, the UTMB, renowned as a premier global cross-country running competition, offers distances of 27K and 50K, showcasing the pinnacle of endurance and athleticism.
The Fun Run categories of 5K and 10K were designed to attract novice and recreational runners, providing an accessible entry point to the world of trail running.
Participant Hendra Lim expressed his delight at taking part in the TOTK Zero Edition, praising the picturesque route and challenging terrain. “The route traveled was very beautiful, the track was neat and challenging. Running while passing through hills, rivers, descending and inclining roads, to waterfalls, I did not feel tired because the scenery was charming,” Lim enthused.
The TOTK Zero Edition not only celebrated the spirit of trail running but also showcased the natural splendor of Samosir and Lake Toba, reaffirming its status as a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers worldwide.
