Press releases

GRODNO, 20 June (BelTA) – Over 100 runners will take part in the debut edition of the Augustow Canal Half Marathon, BelTA learned from head for sports and tourism of the Grodno Oblast Executive Committee Oleg Andreichik.

The 21km half marathon across the most beautiful places of the canal will take place on 23 June. The track is interesting both in terms of racing and in terms of sightseeing. The runners will race partly on concrete and partly on ground. Part of the course will run through new bike paths. Over 50km of bike paths have recently been arranged along the canal, Oleg Andreichik informed.

Applications have already been received from racers from Belarus, Russia and Ukraine. Invitations were also sent to runners from Poland and Lithuania. The Augustow Canal makes part of the visa-free travel area.

Winners will compete in several age groups, individually and in teams. The half marathon aims to cater for all kinds of runners: there will also be 5km and 10km races. The prize money exceeds Br3,000. Over 70 prizes will be awarded. All the participants will be rewarded by a friendship meal and an entertainment program. Free transfer will be arranged from Grodno and back. The registration is still open. Anyone can submit an application.

The half marathon will be the third stage of the Grodno Running League. The athletes and teams will score points after each race to compete for the Grand Prix in several categories.

Other important races include a cross-border marathon that will run between Grodno and Lithuania's Druskininkai on 15 July. Representatives of nine countries have already submitted their applications.