Frequently Asked Questions

Who organizes the Istanbul Eurasia Marathon ?

The Istanbul Eurasia Marathon is organized by Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality.

What is the date of the marathon in 2010 ?

The 32nd edition of the Istanbul Eurasia Marathon is scheduled to Sunday, 17 October 2010.

What other events will take place besides the marathon ?

15km race, 8km public race and an 8km fun run without timing and ranking.

How do I qualify ?

There is no qualification by time for participation. You must be at least 18 years of age to enter the marathon. The lower age limit for the 15km is 15.

How do I enter ?

The entries will open on January 1st. After this date, please follow the instructions on the Registration page. When you register online and pay the entry fee through the secure system, you will receive an automatic confirmation message.

Am I still registered if I fill in the online form but do not make the payment ?

No, the system will not register you without payment.

Are there timing chips ?

Yes, all entrants will receive a timing chip (except free fun run with no timing and ranking) along with their bib number at the Marathon Expo. You must attach your chip to your shoe before the start of the race. You will receive printed instructions on how to do this with your chip - please read them carefully.

Can I use my personal chip ?

No, we provide single-use chips designed for Istanbul Marathon. You will not be asked to return the chips after the event.

I will not be able to pick up my race pack at the Marathon Expo, can someone else pick it up for me ?

Yes, he will need to bring a copy of your ID.

I will arrive Istanbul late on Saturday evening, after the Marathon Expo is over.  How can I receive my race pack ?

If there is anybody in Istanbul who can pick it up for you, send us an e-mail authorizing that person. If you have no one to pick your race pack on behalf of you, contact us to check if any arrangements can be made. Send your e-mail to info@istanbulmarathon.org

Is there a pasta party on the marathon eve ?

Pasta is served free for all participants at all times during the Marathon Expo. There is no separate pasta party.

What is the start time of the event ?

The Marathon and 15 Km start together at 09:00 am. The public race and the fun run start at 09:30.

How do I get to the start ?

Free transportation to the start point will be provided for the participants on the race day from Taksim, the city center, and from Sultanahmet. The buses will leave from 07:00 on, the last bus leaving at 07:30.

What is the time limit to finish the marathon ?

The course is open 5 hours 30 minutes. The traffic opens at 14:30. After that time, the participants who are still on the course will be asked to continue running on the sidewalks. All finishers are eligible to receive commemorative medals.

What is the course like ?

The course is asphalt, mostly flat and will be free of traffic. It is the only course in the world where you can run from one continent to another. All events start on the Asian side of Istanbul, and ends on the European side on route passing the most beautiful sights of the city.

Am I allowed to use my MP3 player during the race ?

For the safety of yourself and the others on the course, we recommend you not to use any portable music devices during the race. However, the utility of them is by no means banned or barred.

Do you provide assistance with accommodation ?

Individuals or groups who will participate in the Istanbul Marathon are welcome to ask for assistance with their accommodation. A range of hotels is available at special rates for our participants and their accompanies. All requests must include the anticipated itinerary and the number of rooms required and must be sent to info@istanbulmarathon.org by fax to +90 212 621 38 48. Please also see our Contact page to check if there is a travel agent or a tour operator in your country who offers a package for the Istanbul Marathon.

What are the records for the course ?

Marathon

Men: Kasime Adilo Roba (Ethiopia) "2:11:16" in 2008.

Women: Nailya Yulamanova (Russia) "2:30:17" in 2008.

15 Km

Men: Selim Bayrak (Turkey) "43:59" in 2008.

Women: Luminita Talpos (Romania) "50:29" in 2008.