"The biggest international marathon in Hungary will be held for the 22nd time. The first event was organised in 1984, when only 625 male and 25 female runners reached the finish line. Even then it was already an international event, attracting runners from 18 countries.Since then the Budapest event has outgrown itself by far as in recent years - in addition to the traditional 42 km marathon distance - participants have been able to take part in a relay marathon (teams of 3 or 5 people), a mini marathon (7.5 km) or a fun run (3.5 km) as well. This year runners for whom 42 km is too much can test themselves at 30 km.
The competitions are accompanied by a family day, which awaits everyone interested with a full day programme on Felvonulás Square. About 150,000 people take part in the family day, while the number of runners starting the marathon distance is 3,000 (including 1,500 from abroad). The relay competitions also attract 3,000 runners and a further 5,000 people will stand at the start line of the shorter distances.
Beside the Hungarian competitors, most of the participants come from Great Britain, Germany and France. This is not a surprise, as the route leads through the most beautiful parts of the city and during the run many historical and architectural sights, such as Heroes’ Square, the Parliament and the Chain Bridge etc, can be seen."
Source:
Budapestinfo.hu
27.09.2007