Undiscovered Beskid Niski - Magurski Ultramarathon
The idea of a mountain run was born from passion for running and love for mountain landscapes and nature of the Low Beskids.
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The Magurski Ultramarathon is an annual running event that has become a favourite in the calendar of both experienced mountain runners and those who are just beginning their adventure with this form of physical activity. It is a unique event that combines the passion for running with the love for the wild nature of the Low Beskids.
The Beskid Niski mountains, off the beaten tourist track, hide many secrets and attractions. Lemko cottages, wooden churches, Orthodox churches, forgotten villages and pre-war cemeteries hidden in the grass and woods are part of the picturesque landscapes surrounded by areas protected by the National Park. These places, although still undiscovered by many Poles, offer ideal conditions for mountain hiking and trips. The Magurski Ultramarathon takes place in the Lower Beskids, where mobile phone coverage is limited, signs warn of wild animals, and the morning mist in the valleys gives the area an air of mystery. The routes will take runners through the wild areas of the Magurski National Park, crossing rivers, hills and the border with Slovakia. It is not only a sporting event, but also an opportunity to get in touch with nature and experience the local character of the region, which allows you to get away from it all.
The Magurski Ultramarathon has several important features. Firstly, the organisers enjoy the highest ratings and positive opinions, both because of the quality of the organisation and the unique atmosphere of the event. This means that many participants become regulars, creating a great running family. The race also achieves high positions in the mountain running rankings, competing with major sporting events, despite its intimate nature. This is proof of the professionalism and quality of the event itself. The elitism of the competition is another advantage of the Magurski Ultramarathon. Organising the race in the Magurski National Park with a limited number of participants (500 runners per day) guarantees no crowds and allows participants to fully enjoy nature. The race is very popular with runners and is usually sold out. That’s why it’s worth registering now.
The reliability and professionalism of the organisers is the key to the success of the Magurski Ultramarathon. Preparations begin 11 months before each edition and the volunteers are experienced Polish runners, which proves the high standard of the event. It is also an international event, where you can meet runners from different countries, such as Hungary, Lithuania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Italy, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Germany, Romania and others. The Magurski Ultramarathon 2023 is a UTMB classified event and is included in the ITRA National League ranking. This is a unique opportunity to combine your passion for running with the fascinating natural environment of the Low Beskydy. Regardless of your level of experience as a runner, the Magurski Ultramarathon will provide you with an unforgettable experience on the picturesque mountain routes of the Low Beskydy.
If you are ready for a running challenge in the picturesque Beskid Niski mountains, the Magurski Ultramarathon offers three exciting distances to choose from. Imagine running through the wilds of the Magura forests, where the morning mist creates a mysterious atmosphere and the phone signal disappears in the mountain wilderness. Get ready for an unforgettable running adventure in one of the most beautiful corners of Poland.
For the most courageous runners there is an Ultra route of 74 km. This challenge is part of the 9th edition of the Magura Ultramarathon. The Ultra route offers amazing experiences – an epic sunrise along the route, steep climbs (including the popular Grzywacka Mountain) and charming descents through meadows. With 2,650 m of altitude difference, this route is eligible for the prestigious UTMB 50k and is part of the ITRA National League 2023 (you will earn 3 ITRA points). The route takes you across the border into Slovakia, past wooden Orthodox churches and picturesque views.
If you prefer a shorter distance, the Magurski Maraton 42 km is an excellent choice. This route, also part of the 9th edition of the Magurski Ultramarathon, takes you through wild hills, deserted glades and the remains of old Lemko villages. The morning fog and lack of telephone reception add a touch of mystery and uncertainty. The 42 km marathon, with 1950 m of altitude difference, is a qualification for the UTMB 20k and ITRA National League 2023 points (you get 2 ITRA points). This route offers the opportunity to cool off in the shade of mountain streams and forests. To avoid any surprises, professional running photographers will capture your triumph.
For those who prefer shorter distances, the Magurun 22 km run is an excellent option. It is a kind of half-marathon with a plus, which is also part of the 9th edition of the Magurski Ultramarathon. The Magurun route leads through the mysterious forests and hills of the Low Beskydy, with views of the Beskydy valleys, meadows and wooden Orthodox churches, the remains of old Lemko settlements, on the horizon. The distance of 22 km is 950 m in altitude, and 80% of the route is covered by forest, which makes it a real trail run. This distance also qualifies for the UTMB 20k and earns 1 ITRA point for the ITRA National League 2023.
Whether you’re an experienced mountain runner or just starting your trail running adventure, the Magurski Ultramarathon has something for you. Choose your distance, prepare yourself for a unique adventure and allow yourself to get away from it all, surrounded by the wild nature of the Low Beskydy.
What each race participant must have with them:
Mandatory equipment for competitors of 74 km and 42 km distances:
- Starting number – in a visible place on the front of the body
- A timing chip attached to the shoelace
- A charged mobile phone (from which it is possible to make calls also using the roaming service) with the Organizer’s number entered
- Valid ID card or passport
- A GPX track uploaded to a phone or watch with GPS and/or a phone with an application that allows you to read the position on the running route (in case of technical difficulties with uploading the track, please have at least an application that allows you to read the position on the map – Cz Maps, Google Maps, etc.)
- A mug/flask/water bottle with a total capacity of min. 0.75 l (can also be used for drinks available at nutritional points – the organizer does not provide cups at nutritional points)
- NRC foil/rescue blanket in standard size
- additionally, a headlamp for competitors running 74 km
Mandatory equipment for 22km competitors:
- Starting number – in a visible place on the front of the body
- A timing chip attached to the shoelace
- A charged mobile phone with the Organizer’s number entered
- Valid ID card or passport
- A cup/flask/water bottle (can also be used for drinks available at nutritional points – the organizer does not provide cups at nutritional points)
Additional recommended equipment: - Rain jacket
- Provisions in appropriate quantity (according to the participant’s assessment)
- Tourist first aid kit
- Abrasion ointment/UV cream
Each participant must have their own cup/bottle/water bottle – you will need this to drink at the feeding points. The organising team will provide drinks, but they will not have disposable cups.
The route will be marked with tape and information boards, but we require 74km and 42km participants to have a GPX track uploaded to their watch or map application on their mobile phone. We also encourage other competitors to upload their tracks.
Mandatory equipment may be checked at the start or on the course, and failure to have any item may result in a time penalty or disqualification from the event.
Courses:
Ultra 74 – Distance: 74 km Elevation: +/- 2100 m
Maraton – Distance: 42,5 km Elevation: +/- 1650 m
Maguran – Distance: 22,5 km Elevation: +/- 850 m
Event website: magurski.com
Photography: Modra