On the run in scenic Sarajevo

In this year’s event three races start at the same time: the Sarajevo Sberbank Half Marathon, the G-Drive Relay Half Marathon and the Novo Nordisk Fun Run (4km), so for those not ready to run the full distance there are plenty of other opportunities in the shorter events of the newly-named “Olimpija Sarajevo Run Fest”.

The proportion of women taking part in the half marathon has grown to 40% of all participants. Women can enter a ‘Girls on the Run’ event during the weekend preceding the Half Marathon. This year it is accompanied by a children’s run – a perfect opportunity for those staying longer in the city with the entire family.

The Sarajevo Sberbank Half Marathon is flat and fast and and leads you through the most beautiful and scenic parts of Sarajevo including most of the historic landmarks of the city: Ottoman, Habsburg and Yugoslav buildings, bridges over the Miljacka River, the old town, and the city’s Kosevo Olympic stadium. The final sprint to the finish line takes you along the city’s main thoroughfare which is filled with eager spectators cheering wildly.

Besides plentiful water and fruit stations along the route high school choirs and orchestras and live DJs play motivational music at strategic points – leading you on to the finish line. That’s where the fun starts: at the post-race party beer, local ćevapi and Bosnian coffee are served and live music adds to the full event experience.

Race morning can bring anything from heat to cooler weather and rain. September weather in Bosnia is variable so make sure you bring easy-to-shed layers of clothing.

Don’t hesitate to visit Sarajevo Sberbank Half Marathon – although a half marathon race it offers the full experience of history, sport, culture, food and fun – and all other aspects that make runners happy. Organisers aim to offer the best quality for price experience to all participants, including carefully designed high quality t-shirts and medals for every finisher.