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 2012 ?

The 34th edition of the Istanbul Eurasia Marathon is scheduled to Sunday, 11 November 2012.

 

What other events will take place besides the marathon ?

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

 

What is the start time of the event ?

The Marathon, 15 Km and 8 Km races start together at 09:00 am. And the fun run start at 09:30.

 

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 15 Km and 8 Km 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 can check your registration on the Confirmation Page.

NOTE: APPLICATIONS BY TELEPHONE, FAX, OR E-MAIL ARE NOT ACCEPTED !

 

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/she will need to bring a copy of your ID.

 

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.

 

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 (in front of Ataturk Culteral Center), the city center, and from Sultanahmet (near Hagia Sophia). 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 from our official travel agent. 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 pelin@ultraturizm.com.tr by fax to +90 312 418 65 55. 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: Vincent Kiplagat (Kenya) "2:10:42" in 2010.

Women: Ashu Kasım (Etiyopya) "2:27:27" in 2010.

15 Km

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

Women: Emily Chebet (Kenya) "48:44" in 2010.