Life on Mars Trail: An Extraterrestrial Adventure on the Island of Pag Attracted Over 1,000 Participants
This year’s edition of the Life on Mars trail race once again proved that sports and nature can create an unforgettable experience. The event brought together over 1,000 participants, including runners from China, Haiti, and the Marshall Islands, all delighted by the beauty of Croatia and the pristine nature of Pag.
The Life on Mars trail has long outgrown the boundaries of a regular race. The combination of Pag’s spectacular landscape, shaped by wind and salt, creates an almost otherworldly experience. Competitors pass through incredible natural scenery along trails that launch them straight to Mars – which is how the race got its unique name.
The event is renowned worldwide, and in addition to domestic and European participants, Metajna attracts runners from the most distant corners of the globe every year. This March, participants from faraway countries enjoyed crystal-clear waters, untouched nature, and the special charm of Pag Island.
Race day began early in the morning under the sun, accompanied by the music of Trio Fly, which added to the atmosphere of sports, recreation, and fun. The start was organized in three groups, each divided into three categories: Light (7 km), Active (15 km), and Challenger (24 km), which required a sense of adventure through the challenging terrain of Pag. The reward for all participants was unforgettable views and great fun throughout the day.
Marina Šćiran, Director of the Novalja Tourist Board, expressed pride in the organization and turnout:
“Thanks to all the people involved in organizing the Life on Mars trail, this race has grown into one of the best trail events in the region. Life on Mars is not only a sports and recreational event but also an important step in promoting a healthy lifestyle. We are particularly pleased with the growing number of children and young people, to whom we aim to pass on habits of healthy living and movement.”
Šćiran added that Pag Island has already secured its place among the world’s leading outdoor destinations, and events like the Life on Mars trail further contribute to tourism development and the promotion of an active and healthy lifestyle.
This year, more than a thousand participants confirmed that Life on Mars is not just a race but an experience that connects people, nature, and adventure – and, most importantly, leaves a lasting impression in the hearts of everyone involved.
