Budapest has long been known as the 'Pearl of the Danube' . The two great sides to the City, Buda the hilly side with commanding views over Pest, the sprawling conurbation on the flat side of the River Danube. Budapest is a relatively safe city, with 1 in 5 of Hungary's 10 Million population living here. Approximately in the centre of Europe, half way between the Ural mountains and the Atlantic coastline. With the low cost airlines now making it a destination too, more and more Brits are discovering the delights of this great capital.

What is included:

• Met at Budapest 'Ferihegy' Airport by 'Running Crazy Ltd' staff
• Transfer and return from/to Airport
• 3* Hotel on Bed & Breakfast basis (Hotel close to race start)
• Race Entry
• Reception Meeting/Map of Area/Explanation of Course
• Goody Bag and Number delivered
• 'T-Shirt' and Medal
• Early Morning Call on race day (if required)
• Full Results Service by E-Mail
• After Race get together
• Optional CD-Rom/DVD Souvenir of race (with you in action)

The Race:

The Marathon starts behind Heroes Square in the City Park. The course is very flat and after running down the cultural Andrassy Avenue, and crossing over the famous 'Chain bridge', it then runs along the embankments of the Danube (both sides), and also on to Margaret's Island. PBs are certainly a possibility here, but if you are unconcerned about times, just be happy to take in some of the great sights of the city. The course finishes back in the City Park, and you are entitled to take a free 'Thermal bath' in the Szechenyi baths (after a shower!). If a Marathon is too far for you, then you can enter a team of three to cover the full distance. The first runner will cover 12.6 Km, the second 21.6 Km, and the final leg 8 KM. This is integrated with the normal race. Championchip timing is used and a returnable deposit of Forint 5,000 (about £15) is required. There is great support throughout the route with a number of live bands in action.

Accommodation:

'Running Crazy' have secured 3* Hotel Accommodation on a Bed & Breakfast basis, at hotels close to the Start/Finish area. This is ideal for pre-race preparations (No queuing at the portable toilet for you) & security of kit, but also handy for showering and changing after the race - if you haven't been in the 'thermal bath' that is! The hotel is located close to the Metro Line/Tram Line for your sightseeing days. Some transportation tickets will be provided. In addition 'Running Crazy Ltd' have found a wonderful and cheap Hungarian Café just around the corner from the hotel, where you can eat a 3 course meal, and have a couple of pints/wines, all for under £8! Evening meals not a problem then.

The Weather:

The weather can be varied at this time in central Europe. Here are the figures:-

• average sunshine hours per day:  6
• wet days in a month:  12
• average temperatuire:  13 to 18 degrees celsius
• average monthly rainfall:  1.2"

Entertainment:

Budapest has long been a top 10 city for tourists. Therefore there is plenty to do. You must visit the 'Fishermens Bastion', the Parliament, Royal Castle, Chain Bridge Opera House, the Buda Citadella. Take in the panoramic view of Pest from Buda, or from St Stephens Basilica (Szent Istvan Bazilika) in Pest itself. Take a sightseeing tour down the Danube on a Riverboat, or how about a training run around Maragaret's Island. You won't get tired of Budapest.

Groups:

This weekend offers a great opportunity for Clubs, or training partners to get together. It may also make the travelling more convenient and enjoyable too. There are discounts for large groups (20+), but even a group of just 10 will qualify for an additional prize for the first or last to finish (you choose).

Prices:

This is a great value for money weekend - Budapest is a relatively cheap place to visit if you know where to go. 'Running Crazy' will provide you with a rough guide to the City. Prices start at just £149 for a weekend. Non-runners obviously pay less.

What to do next:

So if you like the idea of running in Budapest, simply complete the relevant Application Form (Individual or Group) and press 'Send'. Further details will be sent to you by return of E-Mail including travel tips, a full price list, and payment arrangements.