The 11th edition of the iconic Varna Marathon is set to attract over 3500 participants, including elite athletes and running enthusiasts. Scheduled for this weekend, the event will determine the national champions in the classic 42.195 km distance. With over 2200 registered participants from more than 40 countries, the marathon will also feature the 10.5 km and 21 km Asics Run distances.

Organized by the City of Varna, the marathon has become a beloved spring sports festival in the seaside capital. This year, the organizers have prepared numerous surprises along the route, including performances by the Representative Military Band and the world-renowned Gaida Orchestra from the Constantine Preslavsky Humanistic Arts School in Varna. For the first time, participants will be able to visit the Boris Georgiev City Art Gallery and the Archaeological Museum for free from May 13-16 by presenting their race numbers.

The marathon’s route is certified by World Athletics, starting from Independence Square and passing through the central pedestrian zone, the Sea Garden, and the Varna-Sozopol highway. Runners will enjoy the greenery of the park and the sea views. Support stations will be set up every 5 km and at the start and finish lines. The race will begin at 9:30 AM on Sunday, with the 42.195 km and 21 km runs starting first, followed by the 10.5 km and 2 km races.

In connection with the marathon, traffic will be restricted on certain streets and avenues in Varna from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM. The event will also include a family-friendly sports festival with various activities for all ages. This year, children with motor disabilities and special educational needs will participate, thanks to the ParaKids organization and the Carin Home Foundation.

The elite runners, including representatives from renowned international running schools, are expected to challenge the existing Varna Marathon records. With 11 years of tradition, the Varna Marathon has become a symbol of the city, attracting thousands of sports enthusiasts each year.