In this regard, KCNA had an interview with Ham Chang Hyok, deputy department director of the Ministry of Physical Culture and Sports.

Q: It is told that the tournament will draw more marathoners from other countries than previous years. Would you tell me about its scale and proceedings?

A: Taking part in the tournament, slated for April 14, will be scores of male and female marathoners from 16 countries, including Ukraine, the Czech Republic, Zimbabwe, Kenya and Ethiopia, and regions. Among them are players who scored good results in various international tournaments.

Some 600 local marathoners will compete in the tournament.

The contestants will run 10-kilometer distance four times via the Arch of Triumph, Friendship Tower, Kumsong Street, Chongryu and Rungna bridges and Kumrung Tunnel starting from Kim Il Sung Stadium.

The tournament will also include a half-marathon race and a 10km race for juniors.

Q: I think enthusiasm for the upcoming tournament is running high among local marathoners and their coaches as never before.

A: That's right. Kim Kum Ok of the April 25 Sports Team won a gold medal at the 14th Asian Marathon Championship in February, displaying the honor of Songun (military-first) Korea.

The news has fueled their enthusiasm.