Starts at the centre of Fushe-Arrez Municipality in Albania, follows “Micoj” River course, continues through pine forests, passes near “Lumeardh”, village, heads toward the St. Rrok Church, and then follows the ridge until the finish line at the Municipality center. Distance: 11 km
Registration Fee: €10
The “Micoj River Trail” mini-marathon is a scenic 11 km race, with an elevation gain of approximately 373 meters. It begins in the centre of Fushe-Arrez Municipality and follows a pine trail along the course of the “Micoj” river, which holds great significance for the area. Even during high water flow, the river remains passable by foot. After crossing the “Micoj” river bridge, the trail leads runners toward the “Lumeardh” village. From St. Rrok Church, the trail runs upstream along the “Micoj” river through lush greenery, blooming wildflowers, and fresh aromas, offering runners a mesmerizing landscape all the way to the finish line in Fushe-Arrez town centre.
The route is entirely off-road with soft, gently varying terrain. It has been mostly cleared of thick vegetation and other obstacles, making it suitable as much as possible for running and for fully enjoying the area’s natural beauty.
Up to 300 athletes may take part.
1 (one)
3 hours from race start
The marathon gives participants the opportunity to explore and appreciate the rich cultural and historical values of the towns and villages along the route. This event is not just a sporting challenge; it’s a journey through time and a meaningful convergence of tourism, sport, culture, and health.
A list of historical and cultural monuments to visit will be available on the Maraton Albania website. Additionally, each runner’s race bag will include an info sheet detailing the points of interest along the trail, encouraging them to engage with the local culture.
During these days, participants can also take part in various cultural and artistic activities organized by the Fushe-Arrez Municipality, held as part of the annual local festival “Homeland Is a Legacy”. Residents of Fushe-Arrez, their families, and friends whether living locally or returning home gather to celebrate and strengthen ties with each other, their birthplace, and their roots. Participants will experience authentic local traditions, warm hospitality, music, dances, and traditional cuisine.
All individuals aged 18 and older are eligible to participate.
By registering, all athletes agree to comply with the rules and instructions of race organizers, regardless of their chosen race segment. Athletes understand that the race takes place in natural, mountainous terrain, within forests, on rough ground and may expose them to unpredictable environment and weather conditions.
Races routes have been carefully planned and scheduled by “Maraton Albania” sport association and approved by the “Fushe–Arrez” Municipality. Routes have been measured and defined by Maraton Albania experts, conform standard distances. Races will be held on August 9 and 10, 2025, according to the published schedule.
The 11 km “Micoj River Trail” race will take place on August 10, 2025, at 9:00 a.m., starting and ending in the centre of Fushe–Arrez Municipality.
Time limit: 3 hours
Aid stations will be available every 5–7 km, offering water, fruit, soft drinks, and light food.
The “Micoj River Trail” features one (1) aid station.
Long-distance running involves significant time and effort, making energy intake vital. Nutrition during an ultra-marathon is essential not only for performance but also for enjoying the experience. Aid station supplies are selected in accordance with international guidelines and scientific literature to meet the basic energy needs of participants while offering a variety of flavors.
Special attention is given to novice runners, helping prevent energy loss due to lack of experience.
Athletes must bring a water bottle (minimum 500 ml) and/or a cup for beverages at aid stations (water, energy products, soft drinks, etc.).
No disposable cups or bottles will be provided. Each athlete is responsible for their own container (cup, flask, bladder, etc.). Aid stations will use efficient filling equipment, so wide-mouthed containers are recommended for quick refills. Athletes should carry separate containers for water and isotonic drinks.
Hydration backpacks and waist belts are allowed. Athletes are responsible for their own waste and gear; littering or abandoning items along the trail is strictly prohibited.
Athletes may carry any additional gear they consider necessary. Organizers reserve the right to perform random checks to verify required equipment both before and during the race.
Refer to the Mandatory Equipments as listed in the chart below:
# | Mandatory equipments | Races | ||||
11 km | 21 km | 40 km | 60 km | 100 km | ||
1 | Mobile phone | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
2 | Mini first-aid kit |
| ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
3 | Waterproof jacket | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
4 | Solid food |
|
| ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
5 | Emergency blanket |
|
|
| ✔ | ✔ |
6 | Head lamp |
|
|
|
| ✔ |
7 | Water bottle | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
8 | Trekking poles |
| ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
9 | Sun hat | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
10 | Electrolytes Optional, etc. |
|
| ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
All runners’ personal belongings will be managed by the organizers at the start and finish point in Fushe-Arrez.
If any race is interrupted for any reason, participants will wait safely in designated areas and be transported by the organizers to appropriate locations.
In case of a serious incident or rescue alert, the Organizing Committee will inspect the athlete’s mandatory gear.
If it is found that the athlete endangered themselves due to negligence (e.g., missing equipment), they will be disqualified and banned from the next year’s event.
Examples of serious negligence include:
Injury from falling in the dark due to no headlamp
Hypothermia caused by lack of proper clothing
Dehydration due to absence of a hydration system
LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
Organizers are not liable for accidents, injuries, or health problems that may occur during the race.
Participants declare they are fully aware of the risks of trail races, have the necessary experience, and are in good physical health. Medical checkups and health insurance are the personal responsibility of each participant.
