Hey passionate runner! ๐โโ๏ธ Looking for a new challenge? The Sofia Marathon is calling your name โ๏ธ. It's more than just a race; it's an adventure! ๐คช
Picture yourself running through the heart of the Bulgarian capital ๐ง๐ฌ, in an electrifying atmosphere where every mile is a historic and cultural landmark ๐. And yes, we'll tell you more about it later, but the city is full of surprises ๐. The races aren't just ordinary either; you've got 5K, 10K, a Half-Marathon , and a Marathon waiting for you in the streets of Sofia, a city of wonders ๐. And what's more beautiful than crossing the finish line with your head full of incredible memories? ๐
But the Sofia Marathon is about more than just running ๐. Itโs also a chance to explore a fascinating city and its magical surroundings (as we mentioned) ๐ค. After your sporting achievement, why not take the opportunity to visit the Rila Monastery ๐, a UNESCO World Heritage site, just an hour's drive from the city? ๐๏ธ But don't stray too far; just explore the numerous cathedrals โช, or the remnants of the communist era! And that's not all, Sofia is brimming with incredible places ๐คฉ. Visit the National History Museum ๐ to delve into the past, or savor local dishes in the bustling Studentski Grad neighborhood ๐ .
If you're a nature lover, head over to the Vitosha Mountain National Park and enjoy some outdoor hiking ๐ณ. Don't miss the chance to relax in the hot springs at Banya Bashi ๐ซ๏ธ, a true rejuvenation for your body and mind after the physical effort ๐ช.
So, are you convinced yet? Lace up your running shoes and join us at the Sofia Marathon. It's more than a race; it's a journey! ๐
The marathon course is set on a 20 km loop, to be completed twice, winding through the city of Sofia! ๐โโ๏ธ You will start at Alexander Battenberg Square, right in front of the National Gallery of Art ๐ผ๏ธ. In the early kilometers, the Lavov Most (Lion's Bridge) will awaken the lion within you! ๐ฆ Next, you'll pass by the Tsentralni Hali, but no time to bargain for potatoes here! ๐ฅ Keep your pace instead and enjoy the view of the Saint Nedelya Cathedral around the 15 km mark. ๐คฉ During the last 5 km of the loop, you'll be treated to numerous landmarks, including the stunning Sofia University ๐จโ๐, the National Library ๐, the Vasil Levski Monument, and the Saint Alexander Nevsky Cathedral! โช
If you missed anything the first time around, don't worry, you'll have plenty of opportunities to take it all in during your second loop! ๐ฅ
The course for the Sofia Half Marathon follows the same route as the full Marathon, but you'll only complete a single 21 km loop! ๐ฃ
Get ready for a scenic 10 km loop right in the heart of the capital! โค๏ธ
Your journey starts at the Alexander Battenberg Square in front of the National Art Gallery ๐ผ๏ธ. You'll then pass by the iconic Lavov Most (Lionโs Bridge), and head down towards Tsentralni Hali (Central Market Hall). Next up is the majestic Saint Nedelya Church ๐ฅ. Just like the half-marathon and marathon routes, you'll run by Sofia University ๐จโ๐, the National Library ๐, the Vasil Levski Monument, and finally the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral! โช
The route for the 5 km race takes you on a charming loop in the heart of Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria! ๐ง๐ฌ Along the way, you'll pass by the iconic Lavov Most ๐ฆ, the vibrant Tsentralni Hali ๐, as well as the Sofia University ๐จโ๐, the National Library ๐, the Vasil Levski monument, and the grand Saint Alexander Nevski Cathedral! โช
You can collect your race bib at the Marathon Expo, located in the garden opposite the Ivan Vazov Theatre, near the starting line of the Wizz Air Sofia Marathon, at the following dates and times:
Thursday, October 10, from 2 PM to 7 PM
Friday, October 11, from 9:30 AM to 7 PM
Saturday, October 12, from 9:30 AM to 8 PM
No race bibs will be available for pick up on the day of the race.
Saturday, October 12:
5 km race starts at 6 PM
Sunday, October 13:
42 km race starts at 9:30 AM
21 km race starts at 9:45 AM
10 km race starts at 10 AM
Yes, you must be at least 18 years old to run the full marathon. However, there are no age restrictions for the half marathon and the 10 km race.
No, a medical certificate is not required.
There will be refreshment stations every 5 km. After completing your race distance, you will be directed to the finish line refreshment area where you can enjoy food, fruits, hot drinks, and water!
You can sign up to volunteer by clicking this link.
If you're the organizer of this race and want to enhance your page's content, claim it here.
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