ENU Associate Professor organized “Abai Zholy 100 miles” ultramarathon in Semey

Associate Professor of the Sociology Department of the Eurasian National University, Chairman of the Republican Public Association “Yel Sport” Ramazan Salykzhanov, with the support of Abai region Akimat, held an ultramarathon entitled “Abai Zholy 100 miles”. For the first time in the history of domestic sports, runners overcame the marathon distance between “Semey – Borili”  and “Semey – Zhidebay”.

The ultramarathon was attended by athletics enthusiasts from various regions of the country, including ENU employee Keneskhan Toleukhanov, who overcame a distance of 50 miles / 80 kilometers along the route “Semey – Borili”.

“The ultramarathon started from the square of the international airport “ABAI” in Semey city and ended at the House-Museum of Abai Kunanbayev in the Zhidebai Gorge. The marathon runners covered 50 miles / 80 kilometers in 12 hours and 100 miles / 160 kilometers in 24 hours,” the organizer Ramazan Salikzhanov shared.

According to the organizer, more than 100 runners from various regions applied for participation in the competition. However, only 20 runners from China, Russia and our country were given a chance.

“Each participant chose the distance taking into account their capabilities, sports habits, demonstrated endurance and the desire to win. All runners have experience, they have repeatedly participated in competitions organized for amateurs,” said the chairman of the Republican Public Association “Yel Sport”.

Askar Zhanabergenov finished first at a distance of 50 miles / 80 kilometers. His time is 6 hours 23 minutes. Also at this distance, Manat Amet finished second with a result of 6 hours 34 minutes, Yerkebulan Akhmadiyev summed up the top three with a result of 7 hours 46 minutes.

The best result at a distance of 100 miles / 160 kilometers “Semey – Zhidebay” was demonstrated by Aman Nurkeldy, running for 15 hours and 32 minutes, Asset Toltebayev was second at this distance, Akim Yerkebay became third.

At the end of the ultramarathon, the winners and participants were given awards and cash prizes.