On June 6, 2026, the Apuseni Mountains will host the anniversary edition of the msg Apuseni Marathon, one of the most important mountain running events in Romania. Now in its 15th edition, the event organized by the Romanian Alpine Club – Cluj Branch in partnership with .msg Romania and with technical support from La Sportiva brings together thousands of runners in an experience that combines athletic competition, nature, and community.
The 2026 edition promises an impressive turnout from over 10 countries and offers a comprehensive program of technical and recreational races, tailored to both elite athletes and amateur runners—and, for the first time, officially open to people with disabilities.
TECHNICAL RACES
Subaru Ultramarathon – 66.1 km | +3,100 m E
The event’s flagship race starts at dawn, offering a spectacular start and an endurance course in the Apuseni Mountains. The race is part of the UTMB Index Races 50k circuit and awards 3 ITRA (International Trail Running Association) points upon completion.
.msg Marathon – 44.8 km | +2,531 m elevation gain
A technical route crossing alpine meadows, wild trails, and isolated hamlets. The race is part of the UTMB Index Races 50k and awards 2 ITRA points.
Banca Transilvania Half Marathon – 23.7 km | +1,190 m elevation gain
A technical yet accessible race that introduces runners to the unique challenges of mountain running in the Apuseni Mountains; it is part of the UTMB Index Races 20k and awards 1 ITRA point.
POPULAR AND INCLUSIVE RACES
Garmin Cross – 10 km | +500 m elevation gain
A race designed for those taking their first steps in trail running, in an accessible and dynamic format.
No Limits Race – 10 km | +500 m elevation gain (a first!)
The first trail running race in the Apuseni Mountains, in collaboration with Caiac Smile, dedicated to people with disabilities, held in teams consisting of one person with a disability and two runners.
Gerovital Family Race
An event dedicated to families, with adapted routes and an atmosphere focused on movement, joy, and a shared experience in nature.
Registration continues until June 1, here: https://maratonapuseni.ro/en/registrations/
SPECIAL MOMENTS
The anniversary edition brings back the challenge between Stăuina Runcanilor and Pietrele Mărunte, a 3.1 km segment with a 430 m elevation gain, where the King and Queen of the Mountain 2026 will be crowned.
The Grand START will once again feature a warm-up with sports instructors, great music, and the roaring cheers of supporters!
The awards ceremony will be a special one, with a generous prize fund of over eight thousand euros, supplemented this year with the support of partner Banca Transilvania.
THE EVENT EXPERIENCE
The 2026 edition is supported by international and national partners from the sports and technology industries:
- technical gear from La Sportiva
- race kits created in collaboration with ProNutrition
- special prizes offered by Garmin, including Fenix 8 Pro and Instinct 3 AMOLED watches, awarded via a raffle
- collaborative anniversary playlist “In the Rhythm of the Mountain,” created together with the running community
IMPACT AND SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
The anniversary edition continues the focus on community engagement and environmental protection:
- Educational reforestation initiative, dedicated to future generations and environmental education
- Support for the construction of gazebos, mountain shelters, and protective infrastructure in the Apuseni Mountains
- Support for rural schools in the Apuseni region through educational and community initiatives
- Application of the “Leave No Trace” principle, which defines each participant’s responsibility toward nature.
ABOUT THE EVENT
The Apuseni Marathon is a landmark event in Romania’s sporting calendar, bringing together professional and amateur runners for 15 years in a spectacular natural setting. The event promotes mountain running, respect for nature, and the development of the trail running community.
June 6, 2026, Buscat Resort – Băișoara.
Together, in a mountain beat!
Thank you to all our partners that make this competition possible:
- Official Partner – msg Romania
- Technical Partner – La Sportiva
- Race Partners – Subaru, Banca Transilvania, Garmin, Gerovital – Farmec
- Venue Partner – Buscat Ski & Summer Resort
- Specialized Partners – Zumont, Mountex, AlpinExpe, Adrenalin Park, World Class,
- Hydration Partner: Izvorul Minunilor
- Nutrition Partner: Pro Nutrition
- Touristical Partner: Christian Tour
- Parteneris Elf’st marketing & investment, Transylvania Mountain Festival, Black Wolf
- Institution Partners: Consiliul Județean Cluj, Consiliul Județean Alba, Salvamont Cluj, Salvamont Alba, Jandarmeria Cluj, Jandarmeria Alba
- Media Partners: Rock FM, Radio Cluj, Cluj.com
