“Enkelana Marathon” turns Pogradec into the epicenter of world athletics, with participants from 40 countries

The fifth edition of the “Enkelana Marathon” turned Pogradec into a true international running arena, bringing together over 550 amateur and professional athletes from forty countries around the globe.

The races were divided into two main distances, 21 kilometers and 11 kilometers, involving participants of all ages, from 15-year-olds to those over sixty. This year as well, representatives from Kosovo left their mark with their performance.

In the men’s half-marathon, professional runner Timon Mamusha secured the victory, while in the women’s race, Gresa Bakraqi took first place. Both champions praised the quality of the event, highlighting that the marathon is growing in scale and gaining significant prestige on the international stage.

As for the 11-kilometer race, Albert Abazi from Kërçova won in the men’s category, while in the women’s, Kristina Pura from Prrenjas successfully defended her title for the second year in a row.

A very touching and special moment of this edition was the image of a parent who decided to challenge himself by running with his small child, whom he pushed in a stroller along the entire race itinerary in Pogradec.

The festive atmosphere and warm hospitality of the lakeside city left deep impressions on sports enthusiasts from the United States of America, Russia, Japan, Greece, Sweden, and many other countries. All expressed amazement at the enchanting landscape of Lake Ohrid and the warmth of the local residents.

Kristina Shichkova, a participant from Russia, shared her enthusiasm: “I have been here several times for various activities and I always have a wonderful time. The atmosphere here is extraordinary, everything is perfectly organized, and I adore this place. It’s simply fantastic!”

Another runner, who had traveled with a group from Ioannina, said this was his third time participating. He added that a single visit was enough to fall in love with the area’s beauties and that he now considers it an unforgettable experience.

A 60-year-old competitor expressed his determination not to stop: “As long as God gives me health, I will come every year to run on this wonderful route and meet friends. They welcome us with such warmth that we almost feel a moral obligation to return here to see them.”

The success of this event has also been officially recognized, as the Ministry of Economy, Culture and Innovation has honored the “Enkelana Marathon” with the first prize as one of the most prominent sporting events in Albania.

The organizers have also received confirmation that the marathon will continue to be part of Pogradec’s sports calendar for at least the next five years, consolidating the city as an important sports tourism destination.