Semarang Mountain Race, Central Java's Way to Boost Sports Tourism

The Central Java Provincial Government continues to push the development of Sport Tourism by hosting large-scale Sporting Events. One such initiative is the Semarang Mountain Race 2026 held on the slopes of Mount Ungaran, Semarang Regency.

Since early morning, hundreds of runners were ready at The Wujil Hotel area to participate in the cross-country race. Precisely at 05:00 AM WIB, Central Java Regional Secretary Sumarno officially flagged off the participants.

The event featured two main categories, 50K and 82K. A total of 200 runners joined the 50K category, while another 52 runners competed in the challenging 82K category with its difficult terrain and steep climbs.

Sumarno assessed the high participant interest as a positive sign for the development of Sports Tourism in his region.

"The enthusiasm is extraordinary. This is part of developing Sport Tourism in Central Java," he stated on the Central Java Provincial Government's website.

He emphasized that activities like this not only impact tourism but also encourage a healthy Lifestyle among the public.

"This is also to promote a healthy lifestyle. To familiarize exercise among the people and make the people exercise," said Sumarno.

The event attracted participants from various regions. One of them was Jasmine Adli Putri Liza from Jakarta, who came specifically to experience Running on Mount Ungaran's trails.

"I've often climbed mountains since high school, but running on a trail route presents a different challenge. Because I've previously hiked Ungaran, I was curious to try the race version," said Jasmine.

Not only competing, participants also took the opportunity to travel. Jasmine admitted she would enjoy time in Semarang City after the race.

"After finishing, I plan to go sightseeing first in Semarang City. Then return to Jakarta on Sunday night," she added.

Meanwhile, Maulana Hairul Anam from Solo made this event his debut in the 50K category.

"This is my first debut in the 50K category. The timing is right at the beginning of the year and after Eid, so the spirit is still fresh," he explained.

The Semarang Mountain Race 2026 took place from April 10-12 with five race categories ranging from 7K to 82K. 

The route traversed by participants had a total elevation of over 5,500 meters and presented natural challenges.

The event is also affiliated with the International Trail Running Association, providing participants with opportunities to earn qualification points for international races.

By organizing events like this, Central Java hopes that sport tourism will grow further and attract more tourists, while strengthening its position as a Tourist Destination for special interest tourism in Indonesia.