Laos has announced its very first marathon, and it’s a charitable one. The Luang Prabang Half Marathon (www.luangprabanghalfmarathon.com) is set to happen on Oct 5. There are 7km, 14km and 21km races, starting in front of the National Museum. Participants don’t pay any fees to enter but rather are asked to donate at least US$200 to international NGO Friends International (www.friends-international.org). You can also donate more to guarantee yourself a medal (US$500 for silver and US$1,000 for gold). The NGO, which assists marginalized children and youths, is currently running four charitable programs in Laos and will collaborate with the marathon organizers to launch a new program in Luang Prabang using the raised money.