After an emotional starting ceremony at the Phunakha Fortress, where 600 students were singing the national anthem of the Kingdom of Bhutan and the Lama of the monastery were plessing all runners,, the race started.
First stage was set with 30,7km along the Mucha river before passing the longest suspension bridge of Bhutan. After checkpoint 2 runners had to manage the first significant climb up to the Choten Nyingpho Monastery where the the camp was prepared inside the courtyard of the monastery.
In the evening runners were invited by the Lama to join the Buddhist evening ceremony of the 35 young monks.
First stage was won by Mark Tamminga from Canada followed by Paul Brady of Great Britain. Third place went to impressive French running legend Karim Mosta.
The women category was won by British diplomat Georgina Ayre followed by Joany Verschuuren from Canada and British runner Amanda Casto.