Skopje, 28 September 2023 (MIA) – More than 11.000 competitors from 53 countries are set to take part in the 19th edition of the Wizz Air Skopje Marathon on Sunday (October 1), said Kire Sinadinovski, the sports director of the marathon, at a press conference Thursday.

“The numbers surprised us, we didn’t expect such interest considering we had around 8.000 last year. We are far from the record high of 12.500 participants four years ago, but still the number is huge,” added Sinadinovski.

Expectations are high for Macedonian runner Dario Ivanovski, who aims to qualify for the Paris Olympics.

“I can say that I am in top condition. I believe that I can set a new national record and run the best possible time, so I can qualify for the Olympic Games in Paris. I’m grateful to my sponsors and the Macedonian Olympic Committee for helping me reach my goals. I won in 2021, but to be fair there wasn’t much competition. This time I want to win the Skopje Marathon even though there will be participants from Kenya. I believe that if I run my personal best, or at least close to it, I can win,” said Ivanovski at the press conference.

The top Macedonian runner urged the citizens of Skopje to come out on the streets in the capital and provide their support to all participants.

The participants in the Wizz Air Skopje Marathon will be able to pick up their starter kits on Friday and Saturday from 10am to 8pm at the Jane Sandanski Arena. 

A half marathon, relay marathon, and a 5km race will also be held on Sunday, in addition to the marathon.

Photo: MIA