Sunday August 25th 2024 I ran the Maybank Marathon on Bali, Indonesia. Find below my full race coverage from this marathon and some tourist impressions from beautiful Bali.
Bali
Visiting Bali had always been a dream of mine, and I was finally able to explore its breathtaking beauty. My journey began at Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, nestled along the shores of Lake Beratan. The temple seemed to float on the water, surrounded by misty mountains, creating an almost mystical atmosphere. It was peaceful and serene, a perfect start to my adventure.
Next, I ventured to Leke Leke Waterfall, hidden deep within a lush jungle. The hike was invigorating, and as I approached the waterfall, the sound of rushing water grew louder, until I was greeted by a stunning cascade plunging into a clear pool below. Standing there, feeling the cool mist on my face, I couldn’t help but marvel at nature’s beauty.
One of the highlights of my trip was visiting Pura Lempuyang Temple, more famously known as the Gate of Heaven. The panoramic view of Mount Agung framed perfectly by the temple gates was absolutely surreal; well, on pictures, as it was very foggy… I felt as though I was standing in the clouds, with the world at my feet. It was one of the most awe-inspiring moments of my trip.
Afterward, I headed to Taman Tirta Gangga, a royal water palace. The intricate gardens, ponds filled with lotus flowers, and stepping stones leading across the crystal-clear water were enchanting. Walking through the palace grounds, I felt as though I had stepped into a different era.
One of Bali’s iconic sights is the Tegalalang Rice Terraces, and they certainly did not disappoint. The endless layers of green stretching out into the distance were mesmerizing. As I wandered through the terraces, I watched local farmers tending to their crops, and it was humbling to see such harmony between humans and nature.
My journey continued to the GWK Cultural Park, where I was blown away by the sheer size of the towering Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue. The park was a fantastic place to learn about Balinese culture, and I even got to witness a traditional Kecak dance performance, which was incredibly vibrant and captivating.
Towards the end of my trip, I visited Uluwatu Temple, perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean. The temple itself was stunning, but it was the view that took my breath away—especially during sunset, when the sky turned shades of orange and pink, casting a golden glow over the water below.
Finally, no trip to Bali would be complete without a visit to Kuta Beach. I spent my last day here, relaxing on the sandy shores and soaking in the laid-back vibe with a nice cocktail. The beach was bustling, but it was the perfect place to unwind after a weekend of exploring and, yes, a full marathon in the bag.
Bali was everything I had imagined and more. From its sacred temples and stunning landscapes to its rich culture and friendly locals, it was a place I’ll never forget.
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Maybank Marathon 2024 (Bali)
The event carried both the full marathon, a half marathon and a 10 K race, perfectly organized on race day and with ample of water, energy drink and refreshments along the route. Participating in the Maybank Marathon 2024 in Bali was an experience unlike any other. The race took place early in the morning, and as I stood at the starting line with runners from all over the world, I could feel the excitement and energy in the air. The atmosphere was electric, and the backdrop of Bali’s stunning landscape made it even more special.
The marathon route was both challenging and breathtaking. Running through the streets of Gianyar, I passed by traditional Balinese villages where locals stood by to cheer us on with warm smiles and words of encouragement. It was incredible to see the island’s culture and community come to life along the race route.
One of the most memorable parts of the run was the scenery. The race course took us through stretches of lush green rice fields, with the majestic Mount Agung towering in the distance. The peaceful landscape was a beautiful contrast to the intensity of the race, and it gave me a sense of calm and motivation to keep going, even as the miles began to take their toll.
Despite the heat and humidity, I felt a sense of camaraderie with the other runners. We encouraged each other throughout the race, sharing water, smiles, and determination. The support from the spectators was incredible as well—there were traditional Balinese performances, music, and even people offering water and refreshments from the sidelines. It truly felt like the entire island was behind us.
As I approached the final stretch, my legs felt heavy, but the sight of the finish line filled me with a surge of energy. Crossing that line, I was overcome with a sense of accomplishment and pride. Completing the Maybank Marathon was more than just a physical feat; it was a personal victory (booking marathon country no. 79) and a chance to experience Bali in a completely unique way.
The combination of Bali’s natural beauty, the local culture, and the incredible support from the community made this marathon an unforgettable experience. It wasn’t just about running 42 kilometers—it was about embracing the spirit of Bali and becoming part of something truly special.
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See or relive the Maybank Marathon 2024 from below (and in Balanese, Indonesian, Javanese, Malaysian, Thai, Hindi)
