What should I expect from the terrain?
The course is a single, large loop that is AIMS and World Athletics certified, which is music to the ears of anyone hunting a qualifying time. It is predominantly flat and paved, running through the city and finishing within the Poznań International Fair grounds. You won't find any soul-crushing climbs here, but don't expect a scenic trail run either—this is a road battle designed for speed and rhythm.
How much is this going to set me back?
The pricing structure is aggressively tiered, so if you are indecisive, you will pay for it. Registering early (before March 31, 2026) costs PLN 200, but if you wait until the final week in October, you're looking at PLN 320. Given the professional organization and the quality of the finisher amenities, the early-bird rates are an absolute steal. If you want the technical T-shirt, make sure you order it by September 1 to avoid the "sold out" heartbreak at the race office.
What kind of weather am I fighting?
Early October in Poland is the "sweet spot" for marathon running, but it’s a gamble. Expect crisp, cool mornings—likely between 8°C and 13°C (46°F–55°F)—which is ideal for preventing overheating. However, Poland can be moody; keep an eye on the forecast for autumn rain or wind. I’d recommend a lightweight, breathable long-sleeve for the start line that you can easily ditch once the blood starts pumping.
What are the survival essentials on race day?
The organizers know what runners need. You’ll find nutrition stations every 5km starting from the 5km mark. They provide the basics (water and chocolate) at every stop, with the heavy hitters (isotonic drinks, bananas, oranges, and Coke) appearing at selected points. Most importantly, the finish line isn't just a medal station; you get a warm pasta meal in Hall 3, which is a massive win for glycogen replenishment. Just be mindful of the 6-hour cutoff—if you're running a slower pace, you'll be whisked away on a bus rather than walking into the finish.
Is there any real prize money on the line?
Yes, and it's substantial for a regional race. The top men and women can walk away with up to PLN 25,000. They are also incentivizing the elites with a PLN 15,000 bonus for breaking the course records (sub 2:09:57 for men, sub 2:27:01 for women). For the rest of us, you get a finisher medal and the satisfaction of a well-run event.
How do I handle the logistics?
The expo is held at the Poznań International Fair (Hall 3), and you cannot pick up your kit on race day, so plan to arrive on October 3. The start is at 9:00 AM, and the route is closed to traffic until 3:30 PM, meaning you won't be dodging cars. For post-race recovery, they offer showers and massages in Hall 3A until 4:00 PM, which is a luxury many marathons skip.
For more details, check the official Marathon ↗ website.
