The Weekend:
Tirana, the capital city of the Balkan country of Albania was a great eye opener for us. We were surprised at how open, friendly, and modern the city is. For 80 years Albania was under a strict Communist regime and dictatorship, finally freeing itself in the early 1990’s. The ‘House of leaves’ and ‘Bunkart’ provide a fascinating lesson in history. Sitting at the foot of Mount Dajti – take the cable car for unrivalled views – this city is well laid out and ideal for a race weekend break away. Coffee shops galore and very friendly and hospitable people. The races start and finish in Skanderbeg Square, with a great atmosphere. With three distances on offer this makes a great destination for Clubs and Groups.
What is included:
We know that you are going to love what we have put together in Tirana. We know too that you will love this city and it’s friendly and polite people.
• Met at Tirana International Airport by Running Crazy staff
• Transfer and return from/to airport/hotel
• Good and conveniently located 3* Hotel on Bed and Breakfast basis
as standard
• Opportunity to upgrade to 4* hotel if required
• Race Entry (Guaranteed)
• Reception Meeting/Map of Area/Explanation of course
• Goody Bag, T-Shirt and race number delivered
• Optional ‘Running Crazy’ trustworthy pre-race carbohydrate meal
• ‘Running Crazy’ after race get together and celebration
• Optional Sightseeing Tours
• Race Support
• Spectator Support
• Full Results service by E-Mail
• Photos and video of you in action
• Services of the ‘Running Crazy’ team
The Race:
Starting and finishing in Skanderbeg Square, the courses are gently undulating and taking in the park surrounding the artificial lake. There will be bands and folk dancing on the route to encourage you.
For an interactive map of the Marathon course click here
Spectators and Supporters:
Tirana, and the country of Albania was a real surprise and eye opener for us. We loved the safe feel of the city and the friendly, young and vibrant attitude of the residents. There is plenty to do here, including perhaps a trip to Durres on the coast, to the cable car for the unrivalled sights from Mount Dajti, and to learn the history of the fascinating ancient culture, including oppressive times under a Communist dictatorship. There are 175,000 bunkers spread across the country and a visit to Bunkart 1 or 2 is a must. The ‘House of leaves’ showing how life was like under a strict Communist regime, is a shocking but interesting history lesson!
Charity Runners:
'Running Crazy' are delighted to welcome runners who are raising sponsorship for registered charities. We know that the great feeling of accomplishment when completing the race feels even better when you are helping others in to the bargain! See our Run for Charity link to choose a charity that you can help. Many charities listed there will provide special runners packs including sponsorship forms and tips, and also charity running vests. Just contact them with your details and tell them you intend to run with 'Running Crazy' on their behalf. In addition we will provide you with a 'Running Crazy' Certificate confirming your achievement and result, and also a special commemorative prize. Just specify the charity name in your 'Application'.
Accommodation:
We use a great and ideally located 3* hotel as the base for our weekend. We feel our standard hotel is great but an upgrade to a 4* hotel, for those who like their creature comforts, is available at a daily supplement.
The Weather:
Here are the figures:
Average Sunshine days 10
Wet days in a month 6
Average Temperatures 11-20 degrees Celsius
Entertainment:
Tirana has more coffee shops than we have ever seen in any other city! Sophie Café, Mon Cheri, Mulliri are just 3 of the chains. There is a café on virtually every corner and an ice cream parlour not far away either! We will supply ideas of places to see and visit as part of our ‘Running Crazy’ information pack on the city.
Groups:
Tirana is a great venue for a group of runners. Lots of evening entertainment that is just crying out to be shared. There are discounts available for large groups (20+), but even a group of just 10 will qualify for an additional prize for the first or last to finish. If you have a group interested in joining us, just complete the Group Application Form and 'Running Crazy Ltd' will be in touch.
Prices:
Our all inclusive prices are extremely competitive - from as little as just £149 for the weekend - we know we cannot be beaten on price - and our runners continually tell us that they receive so much more on a 'Running Crazy' weekend break. All our 'resort races' offer half board accommodation, and for our 'Big City' races we know all the best value places to eat, drink and have fun. Indeed we book these for our pre-race and after race gatherings, meaning groups and individuals can just sit back, relax, make new running pals and let us do any worrying. No tourist traps for our clients! We know these races and places inside out, and will advise on what to see and do over the weekend, provide directions and maps - all very useful when on a tight timescale. All you have to do is run!
Closing Date
6 weeks before the event, or sooner if "Sold Out" applied to Index page.
What to do next:
If you are interested in taking part in this event, simply complete and return the Application Form . Further details will be sent by return of E-Mail including travel tips, a full price list, and payment arrangements.
