The native Andean forests of Apurímac were host to EcoAventura 2016, a marathon that sought to promote the preservation of Andean forests and to highlight the important role they play for the communities due to the ecosystemic services they provide and to their potential for adaptation and mitigation of climate change.
EcoAventura 2016 is an initiative that fosters conservation of the native Andean forests through three components: i) ecology, ii) culture and iii) tourism. The initiative is since 2006 headed by the Regional Government of Apurímac, the Provincial Municipality of Andahuaylas and the District Municipality of Pacobamba. It has the support of the National Forestry and Wild Life Service (SERFOR) the National Service of Natural Areas Protected by the State (SERNANP) and the Andean Forests Program of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) among other institutions that are joining this initiative for the protection of Andean forests.
EcoAventura 2016 took place on September 25 and received local and international athletes in its three categories: 10K, 21K and 37K that run across superb scenarios in the Andean forests of Pacobamba in the region of Apurímac.
The athletes covered a fascinating route, full of life and millenary history, giving their best at more than 3,000 meters above sea level. The starting point of the circuit was in Ccerabamba and crossed breathtaking spots such as Rumi Cruz, Llactapata, Abra Cusqueña and Curamba and the native Andean forests of Chinchay and ended in the Main Square of Pacobamba.
The traditional 6-kilometer walk took place on September 24, as a prelude to the great Marathon of the Andes, up to the natural lookout of the Lord of Rumi Cruz, patron of the native Andean forests, where an offering was made to honor the earth.
It is worth mentioning that EcoAventura 2016 forms part of the International Circuit of Mountain Marathons I-Tra, a great opportunity for participating athletes to obtain world ranking points.
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www.ecoaventura.org.pe
Relevant links:
Andean Forests Program, Project sheet, Swiss Embassy / Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation SDC
Web Programa Bosques Andinos
