On June 6, 2026, we will celebrate 15 years of .msg Maraton Apuseni—a competition built step by step, with a dynamic community, where running and friendship come together in a mountain beat! Organized by the Cluj Branch of the Romanian Alpine Club in partnership with .msg Romania, the competition is renowned for its picturesque routes, extraordinary atmosphere, and the runners incredible experience!
Together with technical partner La Sportiva, race partners Banca Transilvania, Garmin, Gerovital, and an enthusiastic team of volunteers, we invite runners of all ages to sign up for their favorite race and discover the joy of mountain running!
The Highlight of the Anniversary Edition: Trails for Everyone!
Just like in previous years, the icing on the cake at the .msg Maraton Apuseni is the trail itself! Running through idyllic yet challenging(!) landscapes is a joy, and that’s why we want as many of you as possible to join us! Whether you’re looking to push your limits or simply enjoy the outdoors, the .msg Maraton Apuseni 2026 offers:
Technical Races
- Ultramarathon – a challenge of approximately 66.1 km, with 3,100 m D+, featuring a spectacular start at dawn! The race is part of the UTMB Series 50k pre-qualification circuit and awards 3 ITRA points upon completion.
- .msg Marathon – 44.8 km with 2,531 m D+, on technical trails featuring alpine meadows, picturesque paths, and idyllic hamlets. UTMB Series 20k pre-qualification race, awarded 2 ITRA points.
- Banca Transilvania Half Marathon – 23.7 km with 1,190 m D+, a technical yet accessible race that offers the opportunity to discover the Apuseni Mountains in the mountain’s pace and earns 1 ITRA point.
Popular Races
- Garmin Cross – 10 km with 500 m D+, an easy race, ideal for those taking their first steps in trail running and wanting to enjoy nature.
- Family Gerovital – a race dedicated to families, where kids and their parents run together in an atmosphere full of energy and enthusiasm.
Special Stage: We’re relaunching the challenge between Stăuina Runcanilor and Vârful Pietrele Mărunte: a 3.1 km segment with 430 m elevation gain, where the title of King and Queen of the Mountain 2026 will be decided!
Why Join The 15 Years Anniversary Edition?
.msg Maraton Apuseni is more than just a sporting event—it’s an invitation to get active, connect with others, and truly experience the mountains.
Here are 15 reasons why we’re looking forward to seeing you at the event:
- Be part of the story! We’re waiting for you with 15 years of adventures and cherished moments!
- Anniversary kit with surprises from our partners!
- Anniversary medal for your personal collection!
- Collectible .msg Maraton Apuseni x La Sportiva 2026 gear!
- Routes for everyone – for kids, amateurs, and elite runners!
- Unique vibe “In A Mountain Beat!” – great music, smiles, traditional goulash, and awesome contests!
- Winner’s mindset – the important thing is to take the first step; then everything else falls into place!
- Photo moments along the route that will stay with you for a lifetime!
- Delicious goulash served outdoors, alongside competitors and supporters, after the race!
- An authentic community – ready to support you and share the secrets of running!
- Idyllic landscapes – which some love and praise, while others are just now discovering!
- Pushing yourself – because every step toward your goal transforms you!
- A weekend in nature – alongside colleagues, friends, and family!
- The runners’ super raffle awaits you again with Garmin smartwatches, a fantastic trip for the whole family, and many other gifts!
- The unique feeling of crossing the finish line!
If all of the above has convinced you, then you’re already part of the .msg Maraton Apuseni community, and we’ll see you on June 6 at the START!
All the above will be possible thanks to our amazing partners:
- Main title partner – msg Romania
- Technical partner – La Sportiva
- Race partners – Banca Transilvania, Garmin, Gerovital – Farmec
- Location partners – Buscat Ski & Summer Resort
- Specialized partners – Zumont, Mountex, AlpinExpe, Adrenalin Park, World Class,
- Hydration partners: Ursus Cooler
- Nutrition partners: Pro Nutrition
- Tourist partner: Christian Tour
- Partners: Elf’st marketing & investment, Transylvania Mountain Festival, Black Wolf
- Institutional partners: Consiliul Județean Cluj, Consiliul Județean Alba, Salvamont Cluj, Salvamont Alba, Jandarmeria Cluj, Jandarmeria Alba
- Media partners: Rock FM, Radio Cluj, Cluj.com
