The Disney Dopey Challenge is not your average running event. Over the course of four days, participants take on the incredible task of running a 5K, 10K, half marathon, and full marathon—totalling 78.2 km. It’s a true test of both physical and mental endurance, making it a bucket-list challenge for many runners.
Whether you’re an experienced marathoner or a first-timer, the key to completing the Disney Dopey Challenge lies in smart, strategic training. In this blog, we’ll provide you with a marathon training guide that focuses on building the stamina and resilience needed to conquer all four races. This training approach ensures you’re fully prepared to tackle each event while managing fatigue and recovery.
The Walt Disney World Dopey Challenge is one of the most demanding multi-day running events, held annually at Walt Disney World in Florida. What sets this challenge apart is the combination of four different race distances over four consecutive days:
Training for the Walt Disney World Dopey Challenge requires a strategic approach to build endurance and manage fatigue.
Start with 4-6 weeks of easy runs, 3-4 times a week, to build endurance. Gradually increase your weekly mileage to create a solid running foundation.
A 4-6 month plan should include:
Practice running on tired legs by scheduling back-to-back runs, such as a 15 km run followed by a 25 km run the next day. This simulates the challenge of consecutive race days.
Prioritise recovery with stretching, foam rolling, balanced nutrition, and plenty of sleep. Proper recovery will help prevent injury and improve performance.
Proper nutrition, hydration, and mental focus are key to completing the Walt Disney World Dopey Challenge.
Training for the Walt Disney World Dopey Challenge requires dedication, smart planning, and a well-rounded approach. By focusing on building your endurance, practising back-to-back runs, managing recovery, and preparing mentally, you’ll be ready to conquer all four races. Balancing proper nutrition and hydration will further support your performance, ensuring you stay strong through each event.
With the right preparation, the Walt Disney World Dopey Challenge can be an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking to set a personal best or simply enjoy running through Disney’s magical parks, following this guide will help you approach race day with confidence and excitement.
Good luck, and remember, as Walt Disney said, “If you can dream it, you can do it!” So savour every magical moment of this incredible challenge!
Join Travelling Fit and let us help you every step of the way!
With our expert support, tailored travel packages, and 24 years of experience in marathon travel, you’ll be in great hands as you prepare for the Disney Dopey Challenge.
Our travel packages include:
Start your journey with us today!
The Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend takes place every January at the iconic Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. Over four days, participants run through Disney’s theme parks, enjoying unique photo opportunities with beloved Disney characters.
Wondering how to register for the Walt Disney World Marathon?
Although the 2025 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend has officially sold out, Travelling Fit offers guaranteed entry packages, ensuring you don’t miss out on this magical event.
The event includes:
Travelling Fit has been helping runners experience the magic of the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend for 12 years, ensuring a seamless and stress-free journey from start to finish.
We offer exclusive packages that include guaranteed race entry, accommodation, and exceptional support.
Here’s why you should choose Travelling Fit:
Travelling Fit offers a range of packages for the 2025 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend, designed to suit every runner’s needs. You can choose from our standard packages, which include different lengths of stay and tailored options for each race event.
Here’s what each package includes:
Booking your guaranteed entry to the 2025 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend with Travelling Fit is simple:
1. Visit our website: Head to the Travelling Fit website, navigate to the events page, and then to your preferred Disney marathon page.
2. Choose your package: Select the package that best suits your needs, whether you’re joining the Marathon, Half Marathon or the Dopey Challenge. Travelling Fit offers two main packages for the 2025 event:
Each package includes accommodation at select Disney resorts, ensuring you’re close to the action.
3. Complete the booking form: Fill in the booking form with your personal details, race preferences, and any additional requirements.
4. Make a deposit: Secure your place by making a deposit payment. Subsequent payments will be taken automatically.
5. Receive confirmation: Once your booking is confirmed, you’ll receive an email with all the details of your guaranteed entry package, including race entry and accommodation information.
Even though the 2025 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend is sold out, you can still secure your place through Travelling Fit’s guaranteed entry packages.
Get in touch to start planning your Disney marathon adventure today!
All Disney names and logos are used with permission, which in no way constitutes an endorsement by Disney, express or implied, of any organisation, company, or fundraising campaign. Disney does not control or guarantee the accuracy, relevance, timeliness or completeness of information contained on this website. The views and opinions of authors expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of Disney, and agreement with those views may not be implied by use of the Disney names and logos. ©Disney
The Antarctica Marathon offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience for adventurous runners.
This extraordinary race takes place on the icy continent, providing a unique and challenging route through stunning, pristine landscapes.
Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or an adventurous traveller, the Antarctica Marathon promises an unparalleled journey through one of the most remote and beautiful places on Earth.
We’ll break down the Antarctica Marathon route as well as provide a course map to give you a better idea of what to expect.
The Antarctica Marathon route is an incredible journey that starts and ends 200 metres (0.12 miles) from the Russian base camp, Bellingshausen Station, on King George Island.
The course is entirely on dirt roads which can often be muddy.
Runners will head through Bellingshausen Station and then head east towards the Uruguayan base, Artigas.
The course has a slight descent for the initial 800 metres (0.5 miles) before a moderate incline for the next 1.4km (0.87 miles).
For the next 2.1km (1.3 miles), until runners reach Artigas, the course is mostly flat
Once at Artigas, they turn back towards Bellingshausen Station, following the same route.
Once participants arrive at Bellingshausen Station, they will head west towards the Chilean base, Villa Las Estrellas.
There is a sharp incline for the next 600 metres (0.37 miles) before runners head south towards the Chinese base camp, Great Wall Station.
There is a consistent, gradual decline for the next 1.1km (0.68 miles) before a steady but gradual incline for the next 1.1km until competitors reach the Great Wall Station.
Once here, they’ll turn around and head back towards Bellingshausen Station via Villa Las Estrellas along the same road they came from.
This completes the loop and marks around 14.2km (8.82 miles) into the race.
Runners do this loop another 2 times (3 total) before heading approximately 200 metres (0.12 miles) towards the finish line where the race began.
There is approximately a 109-metre (358-foot) elevation gain and 98-metre (322-foot) elevation loss each lap of the race.
The total elevation gain is approximately 327 metres (1073 feet) and the total elevation loss is approximately 292 metres (958 feet).
Altitude isn’t a factor in this race with the highest point being approximately 69 metres (226 feet) above sea level however you’ll need to consider a more unique approach to gear and training for the Antarctica Marathon.
Below is a screenshot of what the course map would roughly look like.
If you’re looking to compete in the Antarctica Marathon, you’ll need to book through a registered with an approved travel partner such as Travelling Fit.
Our Antarctica Marathon travel packages not only get you to and from the race but are packed with once-in-a-lifetime adventures and excursions that will create memories that you’ll cherish for the rest of your life.
These include:
If you’re considering entering this extraordinary event, check out our previous year’s Antarctica Marathon or Half Marathon package pages to learn more and to give you an idea of pricing for the 2025 event. Please use pricing and information on our website as a guide only.
Otherwise, you can always contact us directly if you’d like to speak with a member of our friendly and helpful staff!
Don’t miss out on this unique adventure—register with Travelling Fit today!
Are you looking for advice about training for the Antarctica Marathon or Half Marathon?
While your training regime for these two events will remain similar to how you prepare for a regular road-based race, there are some tips that can help you better prepare for the conditions.
As participants in this race ourselves, we have first-hand experience competing in this incredible race and have provided key training tips, recommended gear, and what temperature to expect.
The Antarctica Marathon route is 42.2km (21.1km for the half) and is set on dirt roads, which can become muddy depending on the weather.
While the general course is similar year to year, it varies annually based on base operations, road conditions, and weather.
Temperatures typically range from -9.5°C to 1°C, not accounting for wind chill, which can drop temperatures by an additional 12°C.
While heavy snow is uncommon, light snow flurries frequently occur, adding another layer of challenge to the race.
These factors will affect how you train for this race, which we will cover below.
This tip might be difficult for some participants depending on where in the world you live, however, we recommend doing your best to simulate cold conditions if possible.
If you can travel to a nearby location that you know will have a temperature similar to the race, you’ll be able to ensure you’re prepared for racing in colder conditions.
This will give you a great opportunity to practice how you’re going to layer during the race as you’ll get a better understanding of how your body responds and fine-tune your clothing strategy for race day.
Finally, if you can practice in a colder climate that is windy, this will prepare you for the potential windy conditions you’ll experience on race day.
While altitude shouldn’t play a factor in the race with the highest point being approximately 69 metres (226 feet) above sea level, there are several inclines and declines you’ll need to be prepared for.
We recommend that you incorporate trail runs into your routine to get used to uneven surfaces similar to the Antarctica terrain.
When possible, look to seek out muddy trails as this will help you get used to the potentially slippery and challenging conditions of the dirt roads in Antarctica.
Learn more about the Antarctica Marathon elevation gain and loss to help get a better idea of the course.
The last thing you want is to realise halfway through the race that your chosen gear is affecting your performance or even preventing you from finishing.
We’ll cover the recommended gear shortly but ensure you are happy with your trail running shoes and that they provide great grip and comfort.
We also advise you to train with a hydration pack and other re-fueling gear you’ll need to carry due to the lack of supply stations throughout the race.
The challenging terrain will slow your pace so we recommend you incorporate longer, slower runs into your training schedule to adapt.
Focus on time spent running rather than distance covered, gradually increasing your long runs to build the endurance required for extended periods on your feet.
Cold weather affects how your body processes food.
If you have access to train in similar weather conditions, practice your race-day nutrition plan during training runs in cold conditions to ensure your body can handle the energy gels and snacks.
This type of weather can also mask dehydration.
Make a conscious effort to drink regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
Like we mentioned before, you’ll need to consider the weight and accessibility of your nutrition and hydration supplies, as you will need to carry everything with you.
By refining your energy management plan, you can maintain optimal performance and endurance throughout the marathon.
There are a couple of key pieces of information that you’ll need to be aware of before you begin
Each runner is responsible for their own liquids, so make sure to bring 2 or 3 water bottles for race day.
Also, pack any electrolyte replacement fluids, sports gels, or energy supplements you commonly use, as only water will be available in Antarctica.
To prevent littering and ensure all items are secure, all energy supplements must be removed from their paper packaging and placed in plastic flasks or other containers that won’t blow away.
Here are our other key recommendations to ensure you are well-equipped for the race:
Testing your gear during training runs is crucial to ensure comfort and functionality.
Proper gear selection will help you stay warm, hydrated, and energised, enabling you to focus on the race and enjoy the unique experience of running in Antarctica.
If you’re looking to compete in the Antarctica Marathon, you’ll need to book through a registered with an approved travel partner such as Travelling Fit.
Our Antarctica Marathon travel packages not only get you to and from the race but are packed with once-in-a-lifetime adventures and excursions that will create memories that you’ll cherish for the rest of your life.
These include:
If you’re considering entering this extraordinary event, check out our previous year’s Antarctica Marathon or Half Marathon package pages to learn more and to give you an idea of pricing for the 2025 event. Please use pricing and information on our website as a guide only.
Otherwise, you can always contact us directly if you’d like to speak with a member of our friendly and helpful staff!
Don’t miss out on this unique adventure—register with Travelling Fit today!
The two most substantial elevation gains during the Great Wall Marathon route are both around 243 metres and occur during the first 7 km of the race and around 700 metres at the 36 km mark.
Marathon runners also experience an elevation gain of around 200 metres from the 16 km – 23 km mark and around a 50-metre elevation gain during between the 27 km – 28 km portion of the race.
There is also approximately 30 metres of elevation gain during the 31 km – 36 km mark
Check out the graph below for more information about the elevation gain and loss throughout the race for marathon, half-marathon and fun run.
There are a variety of training and nutrition preparation strategies you can use to best prepare for the Great Wall Marathon. Some of these include:
Hill Training: Incorporate hill runs into your training regime. The Great Wall Marathon includes significant elevation changes.
Step Training: Regularly train on stairs or steep inclines. This will prepare you for the thousands of steps on the course.
Cross-Training: Engage in activities like cycling or swimming to improve overall fitness without over-stressing your running muscles.
Strength Training: Focus on leg strength and core stability. Exercises like squats, lunges, and planks are beneficial.
Practice with Gear: Train in the gear you plan to race in, especially your running shoes, to ensure comfort and prevent blisters.
Hydration Strategy: Learn to hydrate effectively during long runs. This is crucial for race day, considering the marathon’s length and climate.
Nutrition Plan: Experiment with different energy gels and foods during training to find what works best for you.
By following these training tips, you’ll be better prepared to tackle the unique challenges of the Great Wall Marathon.
For experienced runners, you might already have everything on the following list. For new runners however, we recommend the following for the Great Wall Marathon:
If you’re looking to compete in the next Great Wall Marathon, registration is generally straightforward however you need to register through an approved travel partner. A reputable travel partner like Traveling Fit can help you find a travel package that suits your budget and needs.
The Great Wall Marathon and its 5,164 steps might just be the most historically significant race location in the world.
Taking place on the third Saturday in May, this marathon isn’t just a test of physical strength, it’s an adventure along one of the world’s most astonishing ancient wonders.
Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a passionate traveller seeking a unique challenge, this event promises an unforgettable experience.
If you’re thinking about tackling this famous race, keep reading to learn everything you need to know about the Great Wall Marathon route.
Check out the map below to see the route for the marathon, half marathon and fun run.
No matter what race type you choose, all runners complete the same 8.5km to start the race.
Commencing at Yin and Yang Square within the ancient Huangyaguan fortress.
Participants commence the race along Jinwei Highway, travelling south for the first kilometre.
The route then takes a turn onto Changcheng Highway, leading runners into a challenging 4 km ascent towards the entrance of the Great Wall. This uphill path tests endurance early in the race.
Upon reaching the 5 km mark, the course transforms as runners meet the iconic steps of the Great Wall. A captivating 3 km stretch on the wall itself includes a loop around the fortress walls, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into China’s rich history.
This section of the race is regarded as having the most intense elevation gain of the Great Wall Marathon.
The course then introduces a dramatic change at the 7 km point with the ‘Goat Track’, a 700 m steep descent back towards Yin and Yang Square.
After rounding the fortress walls at the 8 km point, fun runners end their race in Yin and Yang Square while the half marathon and full marathon runners continue south towards Duanzhuang village.
The next 4.5 km follows a picturesque route along the river towards Duanzhuang village. This stretch offers a scenic run, with views of the river and surrounding landscapes. It’s a chance for participants to appreciate the rural tranquillity of the region.
As they approach the 13km mark, the course takes the runners across the river. This is where the half-marathon runners and full-marathon runners route splits into 2.
Half-marathon runners turn left to complete a 4 km loop through Duanzhuang village while full marathon runners continue south towards Xiaying.
After the split at 13 km, marathon runners head south to Xiaying, transitioning from village energy to the tranquillity of the countryside.
At 16 km, the route exits Xiaying, leading east on Maying Highway towards Dongjiafen village. The landscape is dotted with traditional homes and local farms, providing a rich cultural experience.
As runners arrive at the 20 km mark, they commence a 6 km loop passing through the village of Qingshanling. This steep section is challenging, however, it offers a deeper insight into the local community and their way of life.
Exiting the loop at 26 km, runners face a challenging climb up to Chedaoyu village, testing endurance and strength. Once at the village, a steep descent begins back towards Duanzhuang village. Both the full-marathon and half-marathon participants reunite just before the village at the 29 km and 16 km marks respectively.
Once the half marathon and full marathon routes reunite, the runners cross a bridge back to Jinwei Highway. From there, they begin to run back towards Yin and Yang Square.
This is where half-marathon runners finish their race and head straight for the square. For marathon runners however, they turn right and begin to mentally prepare navigating the great wall portion of the run once more.
This time in reverse, runners start by ascending the ultra-steep ‘Goat Track’, before descending 5km down the Great Wall towards Yin and Yang Square where their finish line finally awaits.
Water stations are positioned approximately every 4 kilometres throughout the race. Along with water, select stations will also offer energy drinks and bananas. Each station supplies bottled water for runners.
For marathon runners, energy gels will be available at the 26km and 35km marks.
The registration process for the Great Wall Marathon is straightforward however you need to register through an approved travel partner. A reputable travel partner like Traveling Fit can help you find a travel package that suits your budget and needs.
We offer 2 exclusive and 2 budget travel packages for the Great Wall Marathon.
Exclusive Packages:
Budget Packages:
Important Notes:
Budget Packages 1 and 2 are NOT hosted by Travelling Fit but by local representatives with no dedicated Australian representation.
The Travelling Fit Exclusive Packages on the other hand, are organised by Travelling Fit, meaning we have more control of what goes on whilst in Beijing. It also gives you, the client, the opportunity to travel with other like-minded Australians travelling with us as part of a unique group.
For personalised Travelling Fit fully hosted tours (recommended) please refer to the Exclusive Travelling Fit Packages.
Check out our Marathon packages and Half Marathon packages to learn more!
Are you looking to incorporate your passion for running into your next holiday?
At Travelling Fit, we’ve been helping runners organise Marathon travel packages since 2000.
As active runners ourselves, we are proud to say that we’ve completed most of the events we offer.
We’ve participated and helped others participate in races in some amazing locations across the world and have created a list of the most beautiful locations we’ve competed in.
Keep reading to find out our top 8 most scenic marathons in the world!
Imagine running along one of the world’s most iconic and ancient structures, the Great Wall of China.
Imagine running along one of the world’s most famous historical landmarks.
The Great Wall Marathon offers just that, an exhilarating challenge that weaves through the rolling hills and imposing towers of China’s legendary Great Wall.
Starting in the village of Huangyaguan, the course takes runners across more than 5,000 stone steps and rugged terrain.
The race’s unique combination of historical significance and natural beauty is what makes it special.
This event also features a Half Marathon option for anyone who is looking for a shorter race.
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the highest peaks in the world, the Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon is an adventure of a lifetime.
Originating from Everest Base Camp at an altitude of 5,364 meters, this marathon is the highest in the world, offering participants an unparalleled challenge.
As runners descend through rugged trails in the heart of the Himalayas, they experience awe-inspiring views of frosty peaks and sherpa settlements.
The marathon goes through traditional Sherpa villages like Gorak Shep, Lobuche, and Namche Bazaar, where runners can see and experience the local lifestyle and traditions that have supported Himalayan expeditions for decades.
The marathon commemorates the first successful ascent of Everest by Tenzing Norgay and Sir Edmund Hillary with the course itself tracing part of the route used during their 1953 expedition.
This challenging race offers more than just a physical test, connecting runners with the history and culture of one of the world’s most iconic landscapes.
Note: The Tenzing Hillary Marathon also features a 70km Ultra Marathon and Half Marathon distance.
The Icefjord Midnight Marathon offers a truly unique racing experience as it unfolds under the ethereal glow of the midnight sun in Greenland.
Runners set off on a course that skirts the vast, awe-inspiring Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its immense icebergs and breathtaking scenery.
Traversing through rocky terrain and the Arctic tundra, The route provides endless natural beauty and a rare glimpse into one of the planet’s most extraordinary environments.
Expect to see views of massive icebergs floating in the fjord, Arctic wildlife, such as seals and seabirds and vibrant wildflowers that grow during the summer months
Another highlight is the contrast of the bright night sky against the stark ice which creates a surreal backdrop for marathoners.
This race offers an exceptional experience, combining the challenge of a marathon with the serene beauty of Arctic landscapes under the midnight sun.
Note: The Icefjord Midnight Marathon also offers a Half Marathon distance.
The Petra Desert Marathon leads runners through one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites, offering an extraordinary blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty.
The race starts in the ancient city of Petra, allowing participants to run through the iconic Siq—a narrow gorge flanked by towering sandstone cliffs that leads to the Treasury, Petra’s most celebrated monument.
As the course winds its way out of the historical city, it unfolds into the rugged desert landscapes of Wadi Musa, presenting challenging climbs and rewarding runners with panoramic views of the desert’s vast expanse.
Throughout the race, runners will also pass through areas that are still used by local Bedouin tribes, providing glimpses into their traditional nomadic lifestyle, which has been a part of the region’s heritage for centuries.
The terrain varies from sandy trails to rocky paths, reflecting the harsh beauty of the Jordanian desert.
Along the route, runners encounter remnants of Nabatean civilisation, adding an element of historical exploration to the physical challenge.
This race offers an unforgettable journey through the heart of ancient Petra, blending the thrill of the run with the awe of exploring a timeless landscape.
Note: The Petra Desert Marathon also offers a Half Marathon distance.
The Polar Circle Marathon, often dubbed “the coolest marathon on Earth,” offers runners an extraordinary adventure in one of the most remote parts of the world.
Held in Greenland, the race takes participants directly into the Arctic ice cap, a stark yet stunning landscape that few ever have the chance to experience firsthand.
The marathon route includes a stretch on the ice cap itself, covered in a permanent snow layer, providing a unique challenge of stability and endurance.
As runners leave the ice cap, the course winds through the tundra, where sub-zero temperatures and potential sightings of Arctic wildlife like musk oxen and snow hares add to the race’s extreme nature.
The varying landscape, from glacier views to rocky mountain terrain, encapsulates the raw beauty of Greenland.
Participating in this marathon offers a rare opportunity to connect with the untouched Arctic wilderness, creating memories that endure as long as the landscapes themselves.
Note: The Polar Circle Marathon also offers a Half Marathon distance. Participants who finish both the Marathon on Saturday and the Half Marathon on Sunday complete the Polar Bear Challenge.
The Big Five Marathon is an extraordinary event that blends the thrill of marathon running with the adventure of an African safari.
Hosted in the Limpopo province of South Africa, this marathon offers participants the unique opportunity to run through the habitat of the African Big Five: lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinoceroses.
The race takes place within the Entabeni Safari Conservancy, a stunning wildlife environment that boasts breathtaking landscapes, from savannahs to dense bushveld and towering mountains.
Typically starting at sunrise, you’ll also have the opportunity to see the savannah bathed in the early morning light.
Runners navigate a route that might include river crossings and steep climbs, challenging their stamina and agility.
If the idea of mixing a race with an African wildlife safari excites you, the Big Five Marathon is for you.
Note: The Big Five Marathon also offers a Half Marathon distance.
The Australian Outback Marathon offers runners a unique journey through the heart of Australia’s iconic desert landscape.
With the majestic Uluru and the Olgas as a constant backdrop, participants are treated to some of the most extraordinary views imaginable.
The course winds through the red dust and sparse vegetation of the Outback, providing a stark yet striking setting that challenges and inspires.
Runners find themselves enveloped in the vastness of the desert, where the horizon stretches endlessly and the skies open up in a panorama of changing colours as the sun rises.
This marathon not only tests physical endurance but also offers a rare connection to a landscape that is quintessentially Australian, filled with the tranquillity and beauty of the remote Outback.
This event is a perfect blend of physical challenge and natural beauty, making it a must-do for marathoners seeking to combine their love of running with an unforgettable travel experience.
Note: The Australian Outback Marathon also offers a Half Marathon, 11km and 6km events.
The Great Ocean Road Marathon is an exhilarating race that stretches along one of the most beautiful coastal routes in the world.
Participants run alongside the rugged cliffs of Australia’s coastline, enjoying uninterrupted views of the vast, rolling Southern Ocean.
The road curves around rocky headlands and through lush rainforest sections, offering a dynamic and visually engaging course.
The event weaves through small seaside towns, where local communities come out to cheer and support the runners, adding a warm and welcoming atmosphere to the exhilarating challenge.
By combining physical endurance with spectacular natural beauty, the Great Ocean Road Marathon stands out as a bucket-list event for runners around the globe.
Note: The Great Ocean Road Running Festival also offers a range of distances, ranging from an ultra distance of 60km to a 10km trail run, to the 1.5km kids gallop.
If you have goals of racing in one of these events and want to take the hassle out of organising your trip, Travelling Fit is your trusted partner in booking your dream marathon travel package.
With over 20 years of experience, we offer curated travel packages to the world’s most scenic and sought-after races.
Our knowledgeable team, who are avid runners themselves, can provide you with invaluable insights and firsthand tips to ensure a seamless experience.
From securing race entries to arranging flights, accommodation, and exclusive pre-race events, we’ll take care of every detail so you can focus on the journey ahead.
Whether you travel solo or with family, we’re dedicated to creating an unforgettable marathon adventure.
Check out our events page or contact us today to learn more about how we can help.
The Athens Marathon, known as “The Authentic,” is one of the most iconic and historic marathons in the world.
Running this race is a dream for many, but with the 2024 event already sold out, securing a spot can be challenging.
Fortunately, Travelling Fit offers guaranteed entry packages that ensure you can participate in this legendary race.
Here’s how you can secure your spot and what our packages include.
Travelling Fit has been taking runners from across the world to the Athens Marathon, The Authentic. for 18 years, providing a seamless and stress-free experience.
We offer exclusive packages that include guaranteed race entry, accommodation, and much more.
Here’s why you should choose Travelling Fit:
Travelling Fit offers two main packages for the Athens Marathon, a 5 Day / 4 Night and a 7 Day / 6 Night package.
Here’s what each package includes:
Booking your guaranteed entry to the Athens Marathon with Travelling Fit is simple:
By booking with Travelling Fit, you also gain access to:
The Athens Marathon is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and with Travelling Fit, you can secure your spot even though the race is sold out.
Our comprehensive packages provide everything you need for a memorable and successful race, from guaranteed entry to expert support.
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity – book your Athens Marathon travel package today and get ready to run this historic event.
The Athens Marathon, known as “The Authentic,” is renowned not only for its historical significance but also for its challenging elevation profile.
The course, which starts in the town of Marathon and finishes in the iconic Panathenaic Stadium in Athens, features significant elevation changes that test the endurance and resilience of every participant.
Here’s a detailed account of the Athens Marathon course elevation changes throughout the race and essential information for those planning to take on this historic challenge.
The Athens Marathon course is characterised by a series of rolling hills and significant elevation gains, particularly in the middle section of the race.
Here’s a breakdown of the elevation changes:
Check out this interactive map to learn more about the Athens Marathon elevation profile
When it comes to breaking down the elevation changes of the Athens Marathon route it’s easiest to split the race up into 5 sections:
The start of the race maintains a gradual decline or relatively flat track for the first few kilometres.
This section allows runners to warm up and find their pace before the more challenging parts of the course begin.
From the 5km to the 17km mark, the course features a series of rolling hills.
This section is a mix of short ascents and descents, which can be both physically and mentally demanding.
It’s important to maintain a steady pace and not push too hard too early.
The stretch from 16km to 18km includes a steep downhill section.
This part of the course can be a relief after the rolling hills, but it also requires careful attention to avoid straining the legs.
The most challenging part of the course begins at the 18km mark and continues until the 31km mark.
This section is a continuous uphill climb, with the steepest inclines occurring around the 19km and 30km marks.
This uphill is relentless and many runners will combine a mixture of running and walking to complete this part of the race.
After conquering the uphill challenge, runners are rewarded with a descent into Athens from the 31km mark to the finish line.
This section is mostly downhill, providing some relief to tired legs, but it can also be tough on the knees.
Travelling Fit has helped runners from across the world travel to and compete in this historic event for over 18 years!
Our Athen Marathon travel package options feature 5 Day/4 Night & 7 Day / 6 Night itineraries which offer a range of tour options and include:
Check out our packages page to learn more or contact us today to speak with a member of our friendly team!
The Athens Marathon, known as “The Authentic,” is a unique and historic race that traces the legendary path of the ancient Greek messenger Pheidippides.
Starting at the historic town of Marathon, runners get to experience the history, culture, and beautiful landscapes of Greece throughout the race.
If you’re looking to participate in this race, we’ve provided a detailed account of the Athens Marathon route and essential information that will help you prepare for this historic but difficult event.
The Athens Marathon, The Authentic. starts in the town of Marathon and finishes in the iconic Panathenaic Stadium in Athens.
The course is 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles) long and is run entirely on asphalt.
While the race starts at 9:00am, the race uses a wave start system.
Runners are allocated to starting blocks based on their previous best finishing times.
Elite runners start first, followed by subsequent waves every 2-6 minutes.
Here’s a breakdown of the route:
The race begins at the ancient battlefield in the town of Marathon. Before the race begins, runners are asked to raise their right arm and take the “marathon oath”.
This is a pledge to honour the ideals and spirit of the marathon movement, which promotes peace throughout the world.
This area is a peaceful, rural setting, offering runners a serene start to the race.
The first 4 kilometres are slightly downhill, allowing runners to settle into their pace.
At the 4km mark, runners turn left into Marathonomachon Street, passing the Marathon Tomb, a powerful reminder of the battle that gave birth to this legendary race.
The circular route around the memorial can be touching, with many racers paying their respects to the fallen soldiers.
This part of the course follows a circular route around the memorial for the next 2.2 kilometres.
As runners leave Marathon, they will pass through the town of Nea Makri.
This section is quite picturesque, with views of the Aegean Sea on one side and the rolling hills on the other.
The course remains mostly flat, with gentle undulations that warm up the legs for the more challenging sections ahead.
Around the 10-kilometre mark, runners will encounter the first significant incline.
The route begins to rise gradually as it heads towards the town of Pikermi.
This part of the course can be tough, as the incline is steady and lasts for several kilometres.
It’s essential for participants to pace themselves and conserve energy for the challenges ahead.
The most challenging section of the Athens Marathon is between the 20-kilometre and 31-kilometre marks.
This stretch features a continuous ascent, with the Athens Marathon elevation peaking at around 248 metres (813 feet) above sea level.
Runners will pass through the town of Pallini and then approach Agia Paraskevi.
The uphill climb can be demanding, both physically and mentally, so proper training and strategy are crucial.
Hydration and nutrition also play a vital role in ensuring runners maintain their energy levels.
After the 31km mark, the course descends into Athens.
The final 11 kilometres are mostly downhill, providing some relief to tired legs.
The route passes through several districts, including Pikermi, Pallini, Gerakas, and Chalandri, before reaching the city centre.
As runners enter the city of Athens, the atmosphere becomes electrifying. The streets are lined with supporters, and the historical landmarks serve as a reminder of the race’s significance.
The final stretch takes participants past some of Athens’ famous sites, including the National Gardens and the Zappeion.
Despite the fatigue well and truly setting in at this point, the outpouring of support from the locals will help you find the motivation to keep running.
The race concludes at the Panathenaic Stadium, a magnificent marble structure that hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.
Crossing the finish line here is a moment of triumph, as runners complete their journey in the footsteps of ancient legends.
The stadium’s grandeur and the roaring crowds make for an unforgettable finish.
Travelling Fit has helped runners from across the world travel to and compete in this historic event for over 18 years!
Our Athen Marathon travel package options feature 5 Day/4 Night & 7 Day / 6 Night itineraries which offer a range of tour options and include:
Check out our packages page to learn more or contact us today to speak with a member from our friendly team!
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