Romania, Serbia Gear Up For Marathon Weekend

Over 5,000 people are expected to compete in this year’s Bucharest International Marathon, half marathon and relay races. Other related events, such as a cross-country race and a children’s race, will draw in a further one thousand participants, according to organisers.

The Novi Sad International Marathon, which this year is in its 19th edition, aims to attract at least 1,000 runners who will attempt to cover the 42.1 KM marathon distance.
Both events are being organised by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races, AIMS, organization.

In Bucharest, the marathon route comprises an urban terrain, taking in some of the most spectacular city centre views of buildings such as Parliament House and Romania’s National Biblioteque.

In Novi Sad, the marathon runs through the city, Serbia’s second largest after Belgrade, and along the banks of the Danube, one of the longest rivers in Europe.

Athletes from more than 40 countries will take part in the Bucharest marathon which will be held under the motto ‘Run For Your Health’. 

"We're using this opportunity mainly to raise public awareness about a healthy lifestyle. That’s why thousands of people are joining us for a day for running and fun-related events,” Valeria Racila, one of the race organizers and former Olympic champion at Canoe Single Paddle, said.

“Furthermore, we have already registered a high level of interest in the event from athletes and tourists. So, this is important for Romania’s tourism industry also,” she added.
Racila wasn’t able to provide any data about how much money tourists are expected to spend in Bucharest.

While not very popular in the Balkans, marathon races across the world embrace tens of thousands of both elite athletes and recreational runners almost every weekend.